We've started taking our son to Scouts Australia over the past weeks, and while I haven't witnessed anything religious, I understand that it is based on a very religious (esp Christian) tradition. Notably I've heard to join you need to give the Scout Promise of “do my best to do my duty to my God". He enjoys it, and I'm not aware of any other, less religious organisation like it in our area. Does anyone know more about this?

When I went to Scouts Aus I was allowed to skip the duty to god part of the promise. There was no religion present in any of the activities or events, not even the big get together we went to. But things might have changed and I went to a country Scout group that was more willing to bend rules then what others might be. If you have worries I would suggest talking to the Scout leader about them and seeing what he can do to help you out.