Government increases funding to Exclusive Brethren schools despite labeling them a ‘cult’

The Australian government has increased funding to schools operated by the Exclusive Brethren by 50 percent over the past two years. This increase has drawn attention, particularly following Prime Minister Kevin Rudd’s past characterization of the group as a “cult.” Figures obtained by The Greens during Senate Estimates revealed that funding for these schools rose from just over $9 million in 2007 under the Howard government to $13.9 million in the current year.

NSW Greens MP John Kaye highlighted that the Rudd Government did not alter the Howard administration’s funding formula, which included an automatic escalation. He pointed out the discrepancy between the government’s label for the group and the financial support provided. Education Minister Julia Gillard’s office stated that recurrent grants for EB schools increased by 14 percent between 2007 and 2008, citing higher student enrollments as a reason.

The government also announced plans to review funding arrangements for non-government schools next year, as part of its commitment to maintain current funding structures. Peter Flinn, a former member of the Exclusive Brethren, expressed concern over the funding increase, noting the group’s history of lobbying and negotiating with governments. He and 30 other ex-members had written to Rudd requesting an inquiry into the group’s financial support.

In the 1990s, two main Brethren schools were granted special status known as “Category 12,” originally intended for Aboriginal schools serving children with specific needs. Michael Bachelard, author of *Behind the Exclusive Brethren*, explained that the group managed to retain this funding status in New South Wales and South Australia under both the old and new systems. New schools built by the Brethren are typically designated as campuses of existing institutions, maintaining their financial advantages.

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