National Commissioner, Youth Program

Scouts Australia welcomed Michael Thomas as the National Commissioner Youth Program

on 2 October, 2024, for an initial appointment of three years.

Michael Thomas

Michael was recruited into Scouting in 2001 when his daughter joined the local group. Having initially committed to a committee role, it took one camp for the Group Leader to convince him to train as a Scout Leader. Michael has since held District, Region and State roles in Victoria, including State Commissioner Scouts and having spent the past nine years as an Assistant Chief Commissioner across Program, Adventure, Strategy and Operations.

Major events are a passion for Michael, having attended each National Jamboree since 2004, as well as being a member of International Contingents, especially to Kandersteg International Scout Centre (KISC) in 2016 and 2023, and PeakUK (2015). Michael has played pivotal roles in Victorian-hosted events, and Victorian Contingents, with senior roles at most events in the last four years. Michael has been the Business Manager for VicJam (formerly AJ2022), Kangarees, Cuborees and Venture24 and the Victorian Contingent for AJ2025.

Professionally, Michael works for Scouts Victoria as their Strategic Growth Manager. This role focuses on growing Scouting in Victoria, including opening new groups, school holiday programs, working to support existing groups and as the Business Manager at events, especially overseeing the financial and contractual elements.

Michael has a great belief in the current program and wishes to see it embraced by all members of Scouting across Australia. He believes we have the ingredients to grow Scouting, and need to unlock this potential with some fresh perspectives and key focus points over the next three years.

Outside of Scouting, Michael is a passionate sports follower, a tragic Carlton supporter, recreational paddler and is embracing life as a caravaner with his wife Fiona.