MPs clash over grilling of Exclusive Brethren leader on alleged election campaigning – video
News Source
•Fri, 16 Oct 2026 06:35:41 GMT
📰 What Happened
MPs clashed at a parliamentary inquiry into the Exclusive Brethren. Church leader Bruce Hales denied any role in coordinating members' campaigning for the Liberals in the 2025 federal election. He said he had no knowledge of the events and no part in planning them. Hales said it was quite likely his sons had not asked his permission.
🔍 The Backstory
MPs questioned Hales about church members standing at polling booths and about 'Make Australia smile again' signs. The church denies paying far-right activists to stage election stunts targeting Anthony Albanese and other Labor MPs. Coalition members at the hearing accused other MPs of religious persecution. One crossbench MP said the clash looked like a protection racket for the old Liberal party.
🎯 Why It Matters
The hearing looks at whether a church secretly helped a political party. Fair rules protect public trust in elections.
MPs clashed at a parliamentary inquiry into the Exclusive Brethren. Church leader Bruce Hales denied any role in coordinating members' campaigning for the Liberals in the 2025 federal election. He said he had no knowledge of the events and no part in planning them. Hales said it was quite likely his sons had not asked his permission.
MPs questioned Hales about church members standing at polling booths and about 'Make Australia smile again' signs. The church denies paying far-right activists to stage election stunts targeting Anthony Albanese and other Labor MPs. Coalition members at the hearing accused other MPs of religious persecution. One crossbench MP said the clash looked like a protection racket for the old Liberal party.
The hearing looks at whether a church secretly helped a political party. Fair rules protect public trust in elections.