Our People
Scouts Australia Welcomes New Chief Scout
Scouts Australia is delighted to announce that our new Chief Scout, Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, was officially invested as Chief Scout of Australia at a ceremony hosted at Government House, Yarralumla on April 15, 2025.
The Investiture ceremony was conducted by our youth members, in line with our youth leading, adult supporting philosophy, with representatives from Groups within the Australian Capital Territory and New South Wales, along with Scouts Australia Chief Commissioner Mr Brendan Watson OAM and Chief Commissioner of Scouts ACT Mr Brent Juratowitch.
The Governor-General is a distinguished businesswoman and community leader, recognised for her exceptional service to Australia, with a strong background in executive and governance roles across business, sport, climate, the arts, policy, and the not-for-profit sector. Before becoming Governor-General, Ms Mostyn chaired many national organisations, including Beyond Blue, the Climate Council, the Women’s Economic Equality Taskforce, and the Foundation for Young Australians. Her commitment and experience align closely with the values of Scouting, ensuring young people have the opportunity to take on leadership roles, contribute to decision-making, and thrive within the movement.
This dedication to equality and inclusion was also exemplified the previous Governor-General and Chief Scout, the Honourable David Hurley AC CVO DS.
Supporting youth development is a core value of the Scouting movement. Scouts Australia continues to make meaningful progress towards greater equality. Recently, we celebrated 50 years of girls and women in Australian Scouting, an important milestone that reflects our ongoing commitment to inclusion.
The appointment of our new Governor-General who is deeply dedicated to these values further strengthens our focus on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members.
We are actively working to ensure equal opportunities for leadership, empowering young people in decision-making roles, and removing barriers to participation, particularly for girls and women seeking to volunteer. Through mentorship, reviewing policies for inclusivity, and a commitment to challenging discrimination, we aim to build a Scouting community where everyone can thrive.
The Governor-General said, “Scouts Australia is one of the largest youth development organisations in the country and I am proud to be invested as Chief Scout. Through the wonderful wide range of activities young people experience together, they develop valuable skills for life. Leadership, teamwork, caring for others and fostering community, problem solving and communication – all these skills contribute to help find a sense of self and purpose and connect your communities.”
With the Governor-General’s dedication to service and community, her appointment as Chief Scout of Australia is a powerful reflection of the values of Scouting. In this role, the Governor-General represents Scouting at national and international events, supports the strategic vision of the organisation alongside the National Team, and helps strengthen community ties through her expertise in leadership, change management, and collaboration. Her passion for equity, sustainability, and youth development aligns seamlessly with the mission of Scouts Australia. With her appointment, we know that Scouts across the Nation will feel empowered, supported, and inspired to live out the values of Scouting in their communities and beyond.
A message from the Chief Scout of Australia
More photos from the Chief Scout’s Investiture Ceremony
