Inquiry examines coercion by cults and fringe groups

THE harmful tactics used by some cults and other fringe groups to control their members are the primary focus of a new parliamentary inquiry which has opened for input from the community. The Legislative Assembly Legal and Social Issues Committee is looking into the methods used to recruit people and the impacts of coercive behaviours. The Nationals’ Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, who is deputy chair of the committee, said the inquiry was hoping to address concerns over the techniques used by cults and fringe groups to attract and retain members. “This inquiry is not about judging or questioning anyone’s beliefs, religious or otherwise,” Ms Cleeland said. “Instead, this is a way of addressing the methods used by these fringe groups such as forbidding people to contact family, preventing educational progress, and dictating where people live or who they live with. “This inquiry will look to see the scope of this, and whether they amount to coercion and possible criminal activity.” Ms Cleeland said it was integral to ensure the voices of former members were heard and encouraged impacted people to make a submission and share their story. “Too often we are hearing of groups that are causing significant emotional, psychological, financial, or even physical harm through their practices,” Ms Cleeland said. “We are hoping this inquiry hears from a broad range of people in our state – and builds a stronger understanding of these concerning behaviours and what can be done to address them at a state government level.” The committee is now calling for submissions from the public who wish to have their say. It is also giving people the option to share their personal experience by filling out a short anonymous questionnaire online. Public hearings are expected to start later this year, and a final report is due in September 2026.

Inquiry examines coercion by cults and fringe groups

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