Australia is shining a spotlight on the shadowy world of cults and fringe groups, with a new parliamentary inquiry set to unravel the secretive tactics these organisations use to recruit and control members.
For many, the word ‘cult’ conjures up images of far-flung compounds and wild-eyed leaders, but the reality is often much closer to home—and far more insidious.
Why now? The push for accountability
The Victorian parliament has launched an inquiry into the recruitment methods and impacts of cults and organised fringe groups, a move welcomed by advocates and survivors alike.
Tore Klevjer, president of Cult Information and Family Support Australia, has seen firsthand the devastation these groups can wreak on individuals and families.
He hopes this inquiry will not only raise awareness but also drive real change, holding groups accountable for the harm they cause.
While the inquiry is based in Victoria, its findings are likely to resonate nationwide. Many of these groups operate across state lines, using similar tactics to lure in new members and maintain control.
Not about beliefs—it’s about harm
Ella George, chair of the Legislative Assembly Legal and Social Issues Committee, is quick to clarify: ‘This isn’t about judging anyone’s beliefs, religious or otherwise.’
Instead, the focus is on groups that use manipulative techniques to cause emotional, psychological, financial, or even physical harm.
The inquiry aims to answer a crucial question: Are our current laws strong enough to deal with groups that use manipulation or control in ways that can seriously hurt people?
Recent events in Victoria have brought these issues to the fore, though the committee hasn’t named specific groups.
However, media reports have highlighted the experiences of former members from groups like Shincheonji and the Geelong Revival Centre, who have spoken out about coercion and the lasting negative impacts on their lives.
Freedom of religion—but not a licence to harm
Australia prides itself on religious freedom, but as the inquiry’s guidance notes point out, ‘Religious freedom does not grant a licence to cause harm.’
There’s no legal definition of a cult in Australia, but for the purposes of this inquiry, the term refers to groups that use manipulative or controlling tactics to dominate members.
Some of the most vulnerable targets are young people. Klevjer describes how cult involvement can tear families apart, disrupt education, and leave former members struggling to rebuild their lives.
‘It breaks down a lot of trust,’ he says, ‘and when people finally leave, they’re often left behind their peers, their study, and their opportunities.’
Charity status: A cloak for control?
One of the more troubling aspects is that many of these groups are registered charities in Australia, enjoying tax exemptions and a veneer of legitimacy.
Klevjer argues that all tax-exempt charities should be required to make their financial reports public, to prove their funds are being used for genuine charitable purposes.
The situation is further complicated by the use of front organisations—groups with different names and faces, all serving the same controlling entity.
How cults reel you in—and keep you hooked
The inquiry will examine a range of recruitment and control tactics, including:
- Love bombing: Showering new recruits with affection and attention to create emotional bonds.
- Isolation: Cutting members off from family and friends, making the group their primary support network.
- Overwhelming involvement: Filling members’ lives with group activities and doctrine, leaving little room for outside interests.
- Demonising dissent: Framing anyone who questions the group as toxic or unenlightened.
- Secrecy and deception: Hiding the group’s true beliefs or intentions, often through front organisations.
- Loss of autonomy: Encouraging members to surrender personal goals and independence for the group’s mission.
- Controlling leadership: Demanding absolute obedience and discouraging critical thinking.
These tactics aren’t just theoretical—they’re the lived reality for many Australians who have found themselves ensnared by such groups.
Legal loopholes and the call for reform
Currently, people who feel they’ve been harmed by cults or fringe groups have little legal recourse.
Klevjer wants to see this change. He proposes that religious or ideological organisations should be required to publish clear statements of their beliefs and practices, especially those that could significantly impact members’ autonomy or well-being.
If a group is found to have misrepresented itself in a way that leads to harm, individuals should have legal protections similar to those under consumer law.
He also calls for coercive control laws—currently focused on domestic relationships—to be extended to cover cults and fringe groups.
The Rationalist Society of Australia has echoed this call, warning that religious cults pose a serious threat to the rights and freedoms of many Australians.
What happens next?
The inquiry is open for public submissions until the end of July, and there’s an anonymous online questionnaire for those who wish to share their experiences.
Public hearings are expected to follow, with the committee due to report its findings by September 2026.
This is an opportunity for survivors and concerned citizens to have their voices heard and to help shape the laws that protect us all from manipulation and harm.
The Melbourne chapter of Shincheonji and the Geelong Revival Church have been approached for comment regarding the inquiry.
Have your say
As the inquiry unfolds, it brings to light the complex and sensitive nature of the issues surrounding cults and fringe groups in Australia.
While the investigation seeks to understand the broader impacts and legal implications, public input remains a key component of the process.
What are your thoughts on the balance between religious freedom and protection from harm? Do you think current laws are sufficient to address coercive practices within certain groups? How should authorities approach concerns about transparency and accountability in charitable organisations? Share your story in the comments below—respectful and thoughtful dialogue is always welcome.
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