Plymouth Brethren Member Admits Encouraging Liberal Campaigning, Denies Church Coordination

A member of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church, Gareth Hales, has described a journalist investigating the denomination as “poisonous” and “full of lies.” Hales, the son of the church’s global head, Bruce Hales, admitted to campaigning for the Liberal Party and encouraging other congregants to do so during the 2025 federal election. However, he maintained that his actions were personal and not part of any coordinated effort by the church.

Hales testified before a parliamentary committee that he was acting as a businessman when he supported the Liberal Party. He expressed concerns about the direction of the country, particularly the pressures on business, and stated that his involvement in the election was a voluntary act. He described his actions as supporting a change of government and volunteering for the campaign.

During the 2025 election, Hales visited several polling booths in Sydney, where he distributed pre-poll cards and wore a Liberal T-shirt. He denied any involvement in harassment or intimidation, which has been reported by some MPs. Hales emphasized that he did not direct or control other church members, stating that his actions were individual and not part of a broader strategy.

Hales also met with then-opposition leader Peter Dutton and a senior adviser at a petrol station, but denied any collusion to disrupt the Liberal Party’s candidates. He described the meeting as routine, noting that Dutton was expected to attend due to a scheduled speech.

The Liberal Party’s review of the 2025 election labeled the Plymouth Brethren as a “support group,” a classification the church has not contested. Church representatives have stated that the label is up to the party to explain.

Hales criticized Sydney Morning Herald journalist Michael Bachelard, who has investigated the church’s political involvement for years. He accused Bachelard of being “poisonous” and of attacking the church and its businesses. Bachelard has rejected claims of bias, insisting his reporting is fair and accurate.

The committee’s inquiry into the church’s conduct has highlighted tensions between the Plymouth Brethren and external scrutiny. While the church maintains that its members’ political involvement is voluntary, the allegations of organized campaigning have sparked debate about the role of religious groups in political processes. The case underscores the complex relationship between faith communities and public life, raising questions about accountability and transparency.

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