Does Australia have a cult problem?

November 16, 2025

Host: Elliot Lawry

Producer: Orla Maher

When we talk about cults, we tend to picture the classic images: a doomsday group in the desert, or a fringe religious sect that feels totally disconnected from everyday life.

But here in Australia, cults are a current and pressing issue in our communities. So much so that the Victorian Parliament has now launched an inquiry into cults and other coercive groups.

In today’s podcast, you’re going to hear from Clare Heath-McIvor. She established an advocacy organisation called the Survivors of Coercive Cults and High-Control Groups after she left behind the life she was born into -a high-control group in eastern Victoria.

Hosts: Elliot Lawry and Emma GillespieGuest: Clare Heath-McIvor, Co-Founder of Survivors of Coercive Cults and High-Control GroupsProducer: Orla Maher

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Does Australia have a cult problem?