Christian sect faces grilling over interference claims

The Plymouth Brethren Christian Church, a secretive sect, will face questioning over accusations of interfering in the 2025 federal election. Senior elder Bruce Hales is scheduled to testify on Friday, stating he had no involvement in the campaigns despite coordinated efforts by the church's members. Multiple candidates alleged unusually high numbers of Liberal volunteers at pre-poll booths during the election.

The Sydney Morning Herald reported the group paid neo-Nazi associates to tail and harass MPs, while church members intimidated voters at booths nationwide. Hales denies these claims, asserting he had no role in the election and only learned of the church's involvement through media reports. The church has repeatedly denied directing its 16,000 Australian congregants to campaign for the Liberal Party, claiming members volunteered freely.

Hales downplayed his authority over members' political choices, stating he does not control members' businesses or civic participation. The church was described as a "support group" for the Liberal Party in its post-election review, a matter Hales acknowledged was the party's responsibility to explain. Hales also denied recording an audio message alleging "boots are manned" and "volunteers are fired up," claiming his only statement was "Australia needs to be happy again" during a Bible meeting.

Plymouth Brethren director Lloyd Grimshaw appeared at previous parliamentary hearings in August, denying accusations of cult-like behavior. The church's website states members only interact with those they take Holy Communion with, distinguishing them from other Christian denominations. Most members are born into the church, though exceptions are made for those willing to embrace the church's way of life.

Hales addressed the issue of control within the Plymouth Brethren in his submission, rejecting the notion of a culture of control. Mark Mackenzie, a known donor who reportedly contributed $370,000 to return the Howard government in 2004, remains a Brethren director, according to Grimshaw's confirmation in August.