Regulator Investigates Charity Status of ‘Apocalyptic Christian Cult’
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The Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) has begun an investigation into the charity status of the controversial group Shincheonji, following an inquiry by ABC. This Christian sect has been labeled an “apocalyptic Christian cult” due to its aggressive recruitment methods and controversial beliefs about the end of the world.
Shincheonji’s Beliefs and Controversial Practices
Shincheonji, founded by 94-year-old Lee Man-hee, believes in the imminent return of Jesus Christ. Members are taught that recruiting others is a divine duty. This has raised concerns among ex-members who report psychological abuse, including:
Sleep deprivation
Brainwashing
Pressure to isolate from family and friends
Financial Overview
The group is registered as a charity, having achieved this status in July 2022. According to ACNC records, Shincheonji’s Melbourne chapter, based in Docklands, reported a revenue of $761,276 for the fiscal year spanning July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024. An overwhelming 97.24% of this revenue came from donations and bequests.
The organization’s financial report for 2025 was due on January 31, but it remains overdue. On February 3, ABC inquired why the ACNC had not acted against Shincheonji, considering its documented harmful practices. In response, the ACNC announced their investigation on February 4.
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