Be prepared for adventure

Duty to God, others and self

Scouting is based on three broad Principles that represent the movement’s fundamental beliefs. They are known as Duty to God, Duty to Others and Duty to Self. All Scouts commit to a code of living as expressed in the Australian Scout Promise and Law, which embodies the Principles of Scouting.

Adherence to spiritual principles, loyalty to the religion that expresses them and acceptance of the duties resulting therefrom.

Duty to God

Loyalty to one’s country in harmony with the promotion of local, national and international peace, understanding and cooperation.

Participation in the development of society with recognition and respect for the dignity of humanity and for the integrity of the natural world.

Duty to Others

Responsibility for the development of oneself.

Duty to Self

Scouts Australia has a definition of Spirituality that suits the needs of the program and makes a link between Duty to God and spiritual development.

Spirituality refers to the feelings or beliefs of a person regarding their purpose in life, connection to others and place in the world around them. These spiritual feelings or beliefs may change as a person develops and guide their actions throughout their life.

Scouts Australia’s definition of Spirituality

Australian Scout Promise and Law

The Australian Scout Promise and Law bonds all Scouting members in Australia under a single commitment. All members promise to live by the same law and share the same values of respect, doing what is right and believing in oneself. This personal commitment also serves to unify members of Scouting.