Thursday, 15 May 2025

South-Eastern Metropolitan Region

Ann-Marie HERMANS (South-Eastern Metropolitan) (12:35): My question is to the Minister for Youth, and my question, Minister, is from a local community Scout group in the South-Eastern Metropolitan Region and relates to Scout sleepovers. I ask: will you provide an exemption or have the government provide a reduced cost to allow these Scout and community groups that cannot afford a temporary occupancy permit the ability to use Scout halls for sleepovers? As you would be aware, under the National Construction Code building classifications most scout halls are classified as class B, which restricts those that do not have a temporary occupancy permit the ability to use their halls for Scout sleepovers. These permits are costly and beyond the reach of many Scout groups, particularly during these difficult times. Scouting teaches teamwork and life skills essential for resiliency. Scouting activities are important post COVID lockdowns due to the increases in depression and mental health issues in children, and sleepovers provided an introduction to camping, which forms an important part of the outdoor activities for the Scouting movement.