A leading figure in the Exclusive Brethren has strongly denied allegations that his church organized volunteer efforts for the Liberal Party during the recent election, dismissing claims of coordinated campaigning or financial support for far-right provocations against government leaders. The church has also rejected suggestions that it operates as a cult, even as a member’s testimony to a parliamentary committee described the label as an uncomfortable characterization. Investigations continue into whether the group exerted undue political influence or engaged in covert activities targeting opposition MPs. The dispute highlights tensions between religious groups and accusations of behind-the-scenes maneuvering in Australia’s political landscape.
Bruce Hales also denies church was a cult while son tells parliamentary committee it was ‘a bit rough’ being labelled as suchGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastThe most senior member of the Exclusive Brethren has denied any knowledge of or involvement in thousands of members from his church volunteering for the Liberal party at the 2025 election.The Plymouth Brethren christian church has rejected claims it coordinated volunteers and a campaign for the Coalition, and that it secretly paid far-right figures to stage stunts against the prime minister and other Labor MPs. Continue reading...
