Brethren Church member admits to 'brief' meeting with far
The leader of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church has denied coordinating a pro-Liberal campaign during the 2025 federal election. His son admitted to meeting far-right figures but characterized the interactions as brief business meetings.
Why it matters
The investigation into potential political interference and intimidation by religious groups raises questions about campaign ethics and the influence of fringe groups in Australian politics.
Gareth Hales has admitted to taking part in the campaign but says it was as a volunteer for the Liberal Party in his capacity as a "private citizen". ( ABC News: Mark Moore )
The spiritual leader of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church has denied allegations he coordinated church members to volunteer in the 2025 federal election campaign.
His son Gareth Hales says he encouraged members of the church, but did not instruct them to participate.
A final report into the 2025 election is due by the end of the year.
Link copied Share Share article The spiritual leader of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church (PBCC) has denied coordinating a pro-Liberal campaign in the 2025 federal election, as his son acknowledged meeting far-right figures accused of targeting MPs.
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