By Sarah McMillan/cvnznews.com
For months now, a Victorian parliamentary inquiry has been hearing some of the most disturbing testimony ever levelled at Australia’s high‑control religious groups. Survivors—many speaking publicly for the first time—have described childhoods marked by fear, coercion, and violence, and adulthoods shaped by the long shadow of psychological harm.
The inquiry has received 286 public submissions, most from former members or their families. An ABC analysis of those submissions shows six groups repeatedly named: Jehovah’s Witnesses (46 submissions), Geelong Revival Centre (25), Shincheonji Church of Jesus (10), City Builders Church (6), Two by Twos (5), and the Church of Scientology (4).
Four of these groups currently operate as registered charities, giving them access to significant tax advantages. Two—Two by Twos and the Geelong Revival Centre—are not registered as charities or businesses in Australia.
Across the submissions, a consistent pattern emerges: child sexual abuse allegations, psychological manipulation, forced isolation, brutal discipline, and fear‑based control. Ninety‑five per cent of respondents say they suffered psychological harm. One former Jehovah’s Witness recalled being shown graphic images of Armageddon as a child—“terrifying” scenes used to enforce obedience. Others described harassment and surveillance after leaving their groups, including claims of online monitoring and coordinated pressure.
Recruitment practices are also under scrutiny. Previous ABC reporting exposed Shincheonji’s highly organised, deceptive methods for drawing in new members—tactics now being examined by the Australian Charities and Not‑for‑profits Commission (ACNC).
The groups named in the inquiry have responded with varying degrees of engagement. Scientology dismissed the allegations as “unfounded” and driven by “anti‑religious activists.” Jehovah’s Witnesses said they would not enter public debate. City Builders Church insists it upholds mainstream Christian belief and says the committee refused to hear its evidence.
Financial transparency is emerging as a central concern. Recent filings show The Church of Scientology Australia reported more than $21 million in revenue, while the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of Australia declared nearly $18 million. Taxation experts warn that when charities accumulate wealth rather than direct funds toward public benefit, they risk drifting from their stated purpose.
Inquiry chair Ella George says the committee is particularly concerned about how high‑control groups use member contributions—and whether charitable status is being misused.
The inquiry’s final report is due in September, but one thing is already clear: Australia is being forced to confront the uncomfortable intersection of faith, power, and accountability.