Accurate at 21 September 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers from the NSW Contingent Management Team, with help from youth members planning AJ2028. Got a question that should be here? Email nsw.contingent@nsw.scouts.com.au.
Before you register
1. What is AJ2028?
- Australia's biggest Scout event.
- AJ2028 is the 27th Australian Scout Jamboree.
- An unforgettable 10-day adventure with over 10,000 Scouts from across Australia and around the world.
- Packed with activities, entertainment, new friendships and lifelong memories.
2. Why should my Scout go?
- Experience something much bigger than a normal Scout camp.
- Build independence, resilience and confidence.
- Meet Scouts from across Australia and around the world.
- Try activities and adventures they may never experience anywhere else.
- Create lifelong friendships and memories that last well beyond the Jamboree.
3. Who can attend?
- Scouts who meet the eligibility requirements for AJ2028.
- Eligibility is based on age and participation requirements.
4. I am currently a Cub, can I go?
- If you become a Scout before registrations close (30 April 2027) and you can meet the eligibility requirements, then yes!
- Otherwise, you can come along to the dedicated Cub Experience day/s. See the AJ2028 website for more details.
5. When and where is it?
- Held at the Elmore Events Centre, Victoria, near Bendigo.
- AJ2028 runs from 29 December 2027 to 7 January 2028 (excluding travel dates).
- NSW participants will travel before and after the event, details provided closer to the Jamboree.
- Families should allow approximately two weeks away from home.
6. How much does it cost?
What to expect
7. Who will my Scout be with?
- Scouts are placed into a Jamboree Unit of around 36 Scouts.
- Each Unit is divided into smaller Patrols.
- Each Unit is led by a team of 5 adult Unit Leaders who support the Scouts throughout the Jamboree.
- Scouts meet their Unit before AJ2028 to build friendships and connections.
8. What if nobody from our Scout Group is going?
- That's absolutely fine and not a problem!
- Many Scouts attend without anyone from their home Group.
- Scouts quickly become part of their Patrol and Jamboree Unit.
- The experience is designed to help Scouts make new friends.
9. What sort of activities will there be?
- A huge range of adventurous, creative and outdoor activities.
- Exciting off-site expeditions and experiences.
- Night entertainment, ceremonies and special events.
- Opportunities to try activities that may not be available at home.
- Activities for every interest, skill level and experience.
Practical information
10. How will my Scout get there?
- The NSW Contingent will organise group travel by coach to and from Victoria.
- Families will receive departure and return information closer to the event.
- Travel arrangements are designed to be safe, organised and easy for families.
- The Jamboree runs from 29 December 2027 to 7 January 2028. Please note that these dates do not include travel — we anticipate travel would depart on 28 December and return on 8 January.
11. Where will they sleep?
- Scouts sleep in tents with their Jamboree Unit.
- Patrol tents are provided as part of the Unit campsite.
- Scouts bring their own sleeping bag and sleeping mat or stretcher.
- Sleeping arrangements are planned to provide suitable privacy and comfort.
12. What will they eat?
- All meals are included in the Jamboree fee.
- Scouts help prepare meals as part of their Patrol's Duty Patrol responsibilities.
- Fresh food is supplied throughout the event.
- Special diets, allergies and medical food requirements can be catered for.
- Cooking together is an important part of the Jamboree experience.
13. What do they need to bring?
- A detailed packing list will be provided closer to AJ2028.
- Normal camping equipment and personal gear for a 10-day camp is required.
- Expensive camping gear is not necessary.
- Local Scout Leaders can help families prepare.
14. Can they bring a phone?
- Yes, but a phone is not compulsory.
- AJ2028 is designed to encourage participation and connection rather than screen time.
- Scouts are responsible for looking after their own device.
- Families will still have ways to stay connected during the event.
15. Will families be able to visit AJ2028?
- AJ2028 will include designated Visitor Day opportunities.
- Details, visitor registration requirements and dates will be communicated by the AJ2028 team closer to the event.
- Families should not plan to visit outside approved visitor arrangements.
Inclusion, Health & Support
16. How will my Scout be supported at AJ2028?
- Supported by their Patrol, Patrol Leaders, Unit Leaders and the wider Jamboree team.
- AJ2028 aims to be an inclusive experience for all Scouts.
- Accessible facilities, dietary support, medical assistance and other reasonable adjustments can be provided where needed.
- Additional support requirements should be discussed with your Group Leader and the NSW Contingent as early as possible.
- Dedicated welfare, first aid and medical services are available throughout the event.
- Scouts are encouraged to ask for help whenever they need it.
- Support is available if a Scout is feeling tired, homesick, unwell or simply having a difficult day.
- Carer arrangements can also be considered where appropriate.
17. How do we prepare for AJ2028?
- Complete registration and required approvals.
- Continue progressing through the Scout Program and Outdoor Adventure Skills.
- Build camping experience before attending.
- Attend Jamboree preparation activities, such as one of the Pre-Jamboree camps, and Unit meetings.
- Start planning equipment, fundraising and savings early.
- Follow Contingent updates and enjoy the journey towards AJ2028:
- Follow us on Facebook.
- Follow us on Instagram.
- Submit your Jamboree preparation stories.
- Any questions, please email nsw.contingent@nsw.scouts.com.au.