The Plymouth Brethren Christian Church (PBCC), a controversial religious group, has come under fire after allegedly offering a former member, Mick Dover, $1 million to remain silent about his claims of being sexually abused as a child by three church members. The offer, made in October last year, was contingent upon Dover signing a non-disclosure agreement and agreeing not to disparage the church.
The PBCC, which claims a global membership of 55,000, is led by Bruce Hales, an enigmatic figure based in Sydney. The church is set to be scrutinized in an upcoming federal parliamentary inquiry into the 2025 election, with its activities described by committee chair Jerome Laxale as an “assault on democracy.” Many former members have labeled the church a cult.
Allegations of Abuse and Legal Battle
Mick Dover, now 65 and residing in Melbourne, alleges that his abuse began at the age of five and continued for a decade. He claims the perpetrators included two men and a woman from affluent circles within the church. Despite the church’s offers of financial settlement, Dover has refused to sign the NDA, condemning the church’s attempts to silence him.
“I’m here today because I don’t give a damn about a million dollars,” Dover told Four Corners. “I have to do this. It’s the only thing I need to do, to have peace.”
“[It was] abuse in ways you can’t imagine. If you want explicit, I can give explicit, I can describe it, but gee, I don’t think you are all ready for that. I’ve had things done to me that my body suffers today for.” – Mick Dover
Dover’s legal documents list 75 individuals within the church whom he informed about the abuse over the years. Despite his disclosures, he claims no action was taken by these individuals, many of whom still hold prominent positions in the PBCC.
Church’s Response and Legal Implications
The PBCC has denied liability in Dover’s case but has refused to comment further. The church sent a legal threat to Dover via his lawyers for speaking to the media about their negotiations. The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse has recommended against the use of non-disclosure agreements in such cases, a sentiment echoed by most abuse lawyers consulted by Four Corners.
“The million dollars was ‘not worth it to me, I’d rather tell you.’ And I don’t want to see the denial [from the PBCC]. ‘Because that isn’t Christian.'” – Mick Dover
The PBCC’s legal strategy has been criticized for its insistence on silence, with the church emphasizing in legal documents that Dover was not to disclose the alleged abuse to media organizations or disparage the church.
The Brethren’s Vast Business Empire
Founded in the 19th century as a breakaway from the Anglican Church, the PBCC is supported by a vast business empire. Bruce Hales, known within the church as the “Elect Vessel,” oversees a network of over 3,000 companies worldwide, with an annual turnover reportedly exceeding $22 billion. This figure is believed to be much higher in reality.
In March 2024, the Australian Tax Office (ATO) conducted a raid on several Brethren businesses linked to the church’s central corporate entity, the Universal Business Team. The raid, executed without notice, was part of an investigation into suspected tax evasion and fraud.
Upcoming Parliamentary Inquiry
The PBCC’s involvement in the 2025 federal election is also under scrutiny. An inquiry chaired by Labor MP Jerome Laxale will examine the church’s conduct during the campaign, including allegations of “aggressive conduct, deliberate obstruction, and intimidating behaviour” towards voters and officials.
The church has stated that its members’ decision to volunteer in the election was personal and not directed by the church. However, the inquiry aims to uncover the extent of the church’s influence in political processes.
This unfolding saga highlights the complex interplay between religious organizations, legal systems, and political processes. As the inquiry progresses, it remains to be seen how these allegations will impact the PBCC and its leadership.
