The state of Victoria has launched an official parliamentary inquiry into the recruitment methods and impacts of cults and organised fringe groups.
link:[https://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/cofg](https://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/cofg)
(https://womensagenda.com.au/…/coercive-control-in…/)
[https://www.abc.net.au/…/cult-inquiry…/105884274](https://www.abc.net.au/…/cult-inquiry…/105884274)
Here are some key details:
The inquiry defines a “cult” or organised fringe group not by belief or doctrine, but by how it operates — practices such as isolating members from family/friends; demanding obedience; using fear or guilt; suppressing individuality; engaging in emotional, financial or psychological abuse.
The first public evidence was given by a couple, Ryan Carey and Catherine Carey, former members of the Geelong Revival Centre; they co-founded Stop Religious Coercion Australia.
The inquiry is scheduled to deliver its findings by 30 September 2026.
It covers not just Christian-based groups but also yoga/spiritual groups, focusing on behaviours rather than beliefs.
Since Shankarananda’s ashram is located in Victoria, several of us who have come out of similar high-control contexts are watching this closely and hoping that the laws being considered will be enacted. It appears to be one of the first inquiries of its kind worldwide — which could set important precedent.
Here is the link for Stop Religious Coercion Australia, co-founded by Ryan and Catherine Carey: