The Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission (ACNC) is looking into Hillsong's tax-exempt status amid criticism that the church is generating profits from its members' donations, while its defenders claim that the church is using the funds to support good works.
Australian politician and former whistleblower Andrew Wilkie has revealed financial records proving that Hillsong Church has been engaging in fraud, money laundering, and tax evasion in Australia and around the world. Documents show how church money was used for luxury trips, private jets, and business class flights by its leaders.
This episode explores the work-life balance of members of the Hillsong church and whether their dedication to the church is healthy and sustainable in the long run.
The speaker discusses his upbringing in a Pentecostal Christian family and the criticisms about Hillsong giving prominent positions to wealthy attendees.
A whistleblower provided financial records and board papers showing that Hillsong is breaking laws relating to fraud, money laundering, and tax evasion. The records also revealed former leader Brian Houston using church money to treat private jets like Ubers.
The popular Hillsong church in the US has experienced a wave of scandals following the downfall of celebrity pastor Karl Lentz due to leadership issues, breaches of trust, and moral failures. The church's global head has resigned due to the controversy, and Lentz's previously high-profile presence has now turned negative attention onto the megachurch.