Today the ACNC confirmed it is investigating Shincheonji, Church of Jesus, the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony, Peter Tribe, Australia Melbourne Church (Melbourne Zion Church) Incorporated (ABN 58378148030).
ACNC Commissioner Sue Woodward AM authorised this disclosure under new secrecy provisions introduced on 5 December 2025.
Ms Woodward said, “I can confirm we are investigating the charity.”
“We take a range of regulatory actions, including issuing advice to charities. The ACNC can open an investigation into any concern we have about potential significant breaches of charity obligations.
“In making this disclosure, I must balance a range of factors, set out in the ACNC Act, including the need to protect the public.”
The amended ACNC secrecy provisions set out certain tests, including considering the impact on public trust and confidence, and the risk of public harm. Unless these strict tests are met, the ACNC cannot publicly comment on whether or not a concern has been raised about a charity, or whether the ACNC is investigating a concern.
Disclosures only apply to new or ongoing investigations relating to a charity’s compliance with the ACNC Act, ACNC Governance Standards or External Conduct Standards. The provision allows the Commissioner to disclose that an investigation is taking place but does not permit disclosure of more information or reasons for investigation.
Our website has more information about the secrecy provisions.