$1.5 million for Year of the Scout

Scouts Australia will receive a $1.5 million dollar boost from the Australian Government to help support 2008 as the Year of the Scout.

Minister for Community Services Nigel Scullion announced the funding today at Scout Headquarters ‘The Barn’ Whaling Station in Mosman, Sydney and acknowledged that 2008 will also celebrate 100 years of Scouting in Australia.

‘This funding will help Scouts Australia build awareness of Scouting and stage community celebrations during 2008,’ Senator Scullion said.

‘It will also be used to encourage young people and families to become involved in Scouting and the activities it offers.

‘Australia was one of the first countries to adopt Scouting and more than two million Australians have been involved in Scouting in the past 100 years.

‘The Scouting movement is the largest national youth development organisation, and is well deserving of this funding. Given that the organisation runs on the power of volunteers, it’s a real credit to them that Scouts is such a strong and enduring movement.

‘Scouts Australia gives young Australians the opportunity to build their self reliance and team work, and also helps young people to build friendships and self confidence.

‘Happy 100th Birthday to the 60,000 registered members of the Scouting Australia and the over 14,000 volunteers who lead the groups across the nation – enjoy the celebrations in 2008,’ Senator Scullion said.

This funding follows the Prime Minister’s announcement declaring 2008 as the Year of the Scout, which will feature a commemorative coin from the Royal Australian Mint.