Bruce Hales, a senior leader of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church (often referred to as the Exclusive Brethren), denies knowing about or being involved in church members volunteering for the Liberal Party during Australia’s 2025 federal election. In evidence to a parliamentary inquiry, Hales says he had “no knowledge” of the conduct in question and “no part in planning them”, and he disputes claims the church coordinated political activity.
Multiple outlets report that MPs question him over allegations that Brethren members campaigned at polling booths and used election signage, and that church leaders met briefly with far-right figures. The inquiry also hears claims that the church paid far-right associates to harass or target Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and other Labor MPs, which the church denies. Outlets describe the questioning as intense, with some coverage characterising it as a “fiery” hearing, and including comments that Hales may have been kept unaware by family members involved.
Across reports, the key points hinge on contested claims about the church’s role, including whether any political campaigning was organised, whether any meetings with extremist figures occurred beyond what is acknowledged, and whether any payments or stunts were carried out.
