MPs clash as Exclusive Brethren leader Bruce Hales denies involvement in campaigning for Liberals in 2025

Key points

• Exclusive Brethren leader Bruce Hales told a parliamentary committee that he had no involvement in the 2025 federal election. Hales said church members who took part did so in a personal capacity, not on behalf of the church.
• The Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters questioned Hales and his son Gareth Hales over allegations about church members campaigning. Hearings were marred by heated exchanges between MPs and senators, with Liberal MP Ben Small calling the questioning ridiculous.
• Independent Andrew Gee said he did not believe the church's account.