A new award scheme is being implemented in 2021. Please refer to the Award Scheme tab on the home page for the full details.
Here is the new Scout Challenge Journey
THIS WAS THE PREVIOUS BADGE SYSTEM:
The Scout Award Scheme provides the main focus for Patrol and Troop activities and gives suitable recognition to Scouts for achievement. Following a Scout’s Investiture, they complete the Scoutcraft Badge and then may earn Targets to become a Pioneer, Explorer and Adventurer Scout. Target requirements provide for going places and doing the adventurous, appealing things that Scouts enjoy, including camping, hiking, exploring, swimming, boating, track and field, fitness activities, and environment projects and practices, usually in the company of the Patrol or other Scouts.
Scoutcraft Badge
This is usually the first badge to be gained and awarded in the Scout Section. The training and testing is carried out jointly by the Patrol Leader and Scout Leader. Click here to read more about the Scoutcraft badge.
Target Badges
There are three levels of Target badges. To achieve the Pioneer, Explorer or Adventurer Badge, the Scout must complete the two compulsory Campcraft and Citizenship Target badges, plus one of the six elective Pioneer Target badges at each level.
The Pioneer Badge (Red) concentrates on participation and learning.
The Explorer Badge (Blue) concentrates on knowledge and skill.
The Adventurer Badge (Green) concentrates on instructing others.
Proficiency Badges
The aim of the Proficiency Badge system is to allow the Scout to develop in a challenging and interesting pursuit. To achieve a Proficiency Badge the Scout must fulfil requirements set in conjunction with their Adviser and which include the three elements of demonstrate/investigate, skill and an activity. There are 31 Scout Proficiency Badges.
Special Interest Badges
There are nine other badges that may be worn. The following five may be used as Proficiency Badges: Amateur Radio Operator Badge, Anchor Badge, Deaf Sign Language Badge, Faith Awareness Badge, Language Emblem.
The following three may be used as Target Badges: First Aid Badge, Landcare Badge, World Scout Environment Badge.
Their Service Our Heritage Badge is a participation badge which may be worn by both adult and youth Members.
Patrol Activity Badges
A Scout is required to earn one Patrol Activity Badge for each of the Target levels in order to earn their Cord for each level. Patrols decide on their own activity to be undertaken as a group. The Troop Council sets the standards for the activity and decides when the Patrol Activity has been achieved.
Cords
To earn the Pioneer Cord (Red) the Scout must complete the Pioneer Badge, two Proficiency Badges and one Patrol Activity Badge.
To earn the Explorer Cord (Blue) the Scout must complete the Explorer Badge, two Proficiency Badges (making a total of four Proficiency Badges), and one Patrol Activity Badge (making a total of two Patrol Activity Badges).
To earn the Adventurer Cord (Green) the Scout must complete the Adventurer Badge, two Proficiency Badges (making a total of six Proficiency Badges), and one Patrol Activity Badge (making a total of three Patrol Activity Badges).
Scout Leadership Course
The Scout Leadership Course aims to provide suitable leadership skills for Scouts, utilising a practical “hands on” approach. This course is organised and run in line with the Patrol System, and can be undertaken on completion of the Pioneer Badge.
Leadership Activity
This requires a Scout to show significant personal development while demonstrating an active leadership role. This involves the planning and organisation of an activity or event that covers a minimum of one full day or overnight.
Australian Scout Medallion
The Australian Scout Medallion is the highest award in the Scout Section. It is considered the pinnacle of Scouting at this stage.
To earn the Australian Scout Medallion a Scout must:
Participate in a Scout Leadership Course at any time after completion of the Pioneer Badge;
Demonstrate an active leadership role in Scouting;
Achieve the Adventurer Cord.
Venturer Scout Link Badge
The Venturer Scout Link Badge links Scouts to the Venturer Scout Section and is the next step in the Scouting journey.