Overview

• Leaked recordings confirm Plymouth Brethren members were instructed to deny their beliefs and affiliation while supporting Coalition candidates at polling booths.
• High-profile figures, including Gareth Hales, son of the sect's global leader, were seen campaigning in Liberal Party apparel, signaling top-level endorsement.
• Former members allege church-linked businesses funneled donations to the Liberal Party by splitting contributions to evade disclosure thresholds, violating Australian law.
• Legal experts and the prime minister have called for investigations into potential breaches of electoral and charity laws, with the church's tax-exempt status at risk if coordination is proven.
• Both the Plymouth Brethren and Coalition leaders deny any organized campaign, framing the actions as individual decisions by church members.