Exclusive Brethren election interference inquiry

A parliamentary inquiry is investigating the Exclusive Brethren following allegations of attempts to disrupt the 2025 Australian federal election. Initial reports focused on claims that the Christian sect paid far-right activists to interfere with the Albanese government’s campaign appearances. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke characterized the allegations as ‘chilling,’ noting the risk of physical intimidation becoming a ‘fee for service.’

During the inquiry, director Lloyd Grimshaw denied that the church or its directors made reportable political donations, asserting that members participated in the election under their own volition and that the church has faced ‘extraordinary attacks.’

As the investigation progressed, authorities considered issuing subpoenas to the world leader of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church and his son. The probe expanded to examine a suspected multimillion-dollar covert influence campaign. Leaked messages suggest the operation may have involved tracking Members of Parliament and providing intelligence to individuals with white supremacy associations to facilitate scripted disruptions. The investigation is also looking into the involvement of senior church elders and the company Sante Global.