Introduction
Public liability insurance is one of the most important protections that Scouts Queensland holds. It helps keep our movement safe, financially secure, and able to continue delivering high-quality programs to young people across the state.
This article explains, in simple terms, what public liability insurance is, what it covers, and what it does not cover.
What Is Public Liability Insurance?
Scouting is diverse—we run thousands of activities every year, from weekly meetings to major events. Public liability insurance applies broadly across almost everything we do.
It covers incidents that occur during:
- Weekly section meetings
- Approved adventurous activities (e.g., abseiling, paddling, hiking)
- Camps and major events such as Jamborees, Cuborees, Moots, Agoonorees, etc
- Fundraising events including markets, fetes, and community stalls
- Property ownership and use, such as halls, campsites, and facilities
- Holiday programs and school-based activities
- Leader training and development courses
- Any other activity carried out as part of normal Scouting operations
As long as volunteers and youth members are acting in good faith and following Scouts Queensland policies and procedures, public liability insurance is there to help protect both the individual and the organisation.
Certificates of Currency
Sometimes a venue, council, school, or community group may request proof of our public liability insurance.
Scouts Queensland makes this process simple:
Certificates of Currency are publicly available and can be downloaded at any time from our Support Hub,.
You are welcome to provide this document whenever a partner or event organiser needs confirmation that Scouts Queensland holds appropriate insurance.
What Public Liability Insurance Does Not Cover
While our public liability insurance provides strong protection, there are some clear limits.
1. It Does NOT Cover Third Parties
Scouts Queensland cannot provide insurance to people or organisations outside of Scouting.
This means:
- External groups cannot run activities “under the umbrella of Scouts Queensland” to rely on our insurance.
- Individuals who are not registered members or volunteers cannot be covered under our policies.
- Businesses, contractors, or special-interest groups must hold their own insurance.
This applies even if the activity is happening at a Scout property or alongside a Scout event.
2. It Does NOT Replace a Third Party’s Own Legal Responsibilities
For example:
• A specialist instructor hired for a Scout activity must still have their own professional or business insurance.
• A community club or external organisation using Scout facilities must have their own public liability insurance.
Public liability does not transfer responsibility away from these groups or cover them for their own actions.
When to Ask for Help
These situations can sometimes be tricky—especially when someone asks:
• “Can we join this event under your insurance?”
• “Can you list us on your policy?”
• “Can we run our program as a Scout activity so we’re covered?”
If you ever receive a request like this, or if something doesn’t feel right, you are not expected to make the decision alone.
We are here to support you and help ensure Scouting remains safe, compliant, and protected.
In Summary
• Public liability insurance protects Scouts Queensland if someone claims injury or property damage.
• It applies to almost all Scouting activities and events.
• Certificates of Currency are available online whenever needed.
• Public liability does not cover outsiders, businesses, or groups trying to rely on Scout insurance.
• When in doubt, reach out to the Scouts Queensland Risk team.
By understanding these basics, volunteers can feel confident running safe, enjoyable, and well-supported Scouting programs across Queensland.