The cost of Scouting can be divided into four parts:
An annual Scouts WA membership fee: $370
This contributes towards the cost of insurance, leader training, event support, administration and continual improvements to the Scouts Australia program. This is paid when you become a member and lasts for 12 months.
An annual local Scout Group fee: $320 (on average)
This fee is variable by Group as it covers the cost of equipment, supplies, maintenance and general running costs, which differ from Group to Group. This is paid directly to the Scout Group.
Scout uniform: $37-$52
Uniforms are usually worn on Scout nights and comprises a section specific Scout shirt and scarf. Optional extra uniform pieces can be purchased such as pants, beanies, jackets, and hats. Sometimes Groups may choose to design their own unique Activity Shirt which can be worn for Group activities – especially ones where dirt is involved! Camps and Jamborees often have their own shirts and apparel that can be purchased during the event.
Additional voluntary fees
Scouts WA and local Scout Groups organise regular and frequent events and activities that are in addition to regular Scout nights. These are optional and are not neccessary to gain the benefits of Scouting – but they are a WHOLE lot of fun for youth members and often help to solidify friendships. The fees cover the costs of things such as activities, transport, food or entry fees. These are charged as they occur, and in such cases we aim to keep costs to families as low as possible.
Financial support is available
We are really excited to be recognised by the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism and Sport as an approved club. This means that eligible families can apply for a KidSport voucher and use that voucher towards membership and activity participation fees. There is some eligibility criteria, and you will need to provide evidence of this upon application. There is also a special consideration available for those who may have difficulty accessing concession cards. You can find the details through the link below to see if you might be eligible. Once your voucher is approved, you can email your voucher code to accounts@scoutswa.com.au
The Caring Circle
We don’t ever want cost to be the reason a young person can’t participate in Scouting, so if you want to join, but are doing it a bit tough and can’t access KidSport, please get in touch for a confidential chat. The Caring Circle has funding available to those who need it. And when you’re in a stronger financial position, you might want to ‘pay it forward’ with a donation to The Caring Circle (though there’s no obligation of course!)