Exclusive Brethren head denies knowing church members were volunteering for Liberal party during 2025 election
News Source
β’Fri, 16 Oct 2026 06:58:24 GMT
π° What Happened
Bruce Hales, the most senior member of the Exclusive Brethren, has denied knowing that church members volunteered for the Liberal party at the 2025 election. He told a parliamentary inquiry he did not plan, direct or fund such activity. The church also denies paying far-right figures to stage stunts against the prime minister.
π The Backstory
Nine newspapers reported that thousands of Brethren members campaigned for the Coalition. Days before the election, Hales gave a sermon urging members to pray for good government. The phrases 'make Australia smile again' later appeared on campaign signs. Hales's son Gareth denied paying activists Morgan C Jonas and Chris de Bruyne to disrupt other campaigns.
π― Why It Matters
The case raises questions about hidden money and religion in politics. It matters to voters who want elections to be fair and open.
Bruce Hales, the most senior member of the Exclusive Brethren, has denied knowing that church members volunteered for the Liberal party at the 2025 election. He told a parliamentary inquiry he did not plan, direct or fund such activity. The church also denies paying far-right figures to stage stunts against the prime minister.
Nine newspapers reported that thousands of Brethren members campaigned for the Coalition. Days before the election, Hales gave a sermon urging members to pray for good government. The phrases 'make Australia smile again' later appeared on campaign signs. Hales's son Gareth denied paying activists Morgan C Jonas and Chris de Bruyne to disrupt other campaigns.
The case raises questions about hidden money and religion in politics. It matters to voters who want elections to be fair and open.