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The “cult” church accused of paying far-right activists for election stunts

Aug 25, 2026 •

Last year, the Prime Minister was ambushed in his hotel lobby by far-right figures boasting of being fed “private intel” during the last election campaign. 

The incident was one of about a dozen stunts targeting Labor, the Greens and some Independents. 

It turns out, this wasn’t just about influencers trying to generate content. It was actually a co-ordinated campaign allegedly paid for by a wealthy Christian sect. 

Today, investigative journalist at The Age Sherryn Groch on the Exclusive Brethren, its bags of cash, and connections to the Liberal Party. 

If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.

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The “cult” church accused of paying far-right activists for election stunts

2024 • Aug 25, 2026

The “cult” church accused of paying far-right activists for election stunts

Last year, the Prime Minister was ambushed in his hotel lobby by far-right figures boasting of being fed “private intel” during the last election campaign. 

The incident was one of about a dozen stunts targeting Labor, the Greens and some Independents. 

It turns out, this wasn’t just about influencers trying to generate content. It was actually a co-ordinated campaign allegedly paid for by a wealthy Christian sect. 

Today, investigative journalist at The Age Sherryn Groch on the Exclusive Brethren, its bags of cash, and connections to the Liberal Party. 

If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.

Guest: Investigative journalist at The Age & SMH Sherryn Groch

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7am is a daily show from Solstice Media.

It’s made by Atticus Bastow, Chris Dengate, Daniel James, Krystal Keller, Ranee Orklin, Ruby Jones, Travis Evans and Zoltan Fecso.

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2024: The “cult” church accused of paying far-right activists for election stunts