Good afternoon,
After ten months of determined effort-thousands of volunteer hours, and a nationwide collaboration, Samson Rising is honoured to share an important development.
Complainants have confirmed to Samson Rising that several agencies are investigating matters involving multiple individuals within the CFO.
According to the complainants, those being investigated include senior leaders. The investigations include allegations of child abuse, physical harm, and psychological abuse.
Importantly, complainants told Samson Rising that investigations also appear to include some ordinary congregants of the CFO. If so, this may present the difficult reality that obedience to harmful teachings can draw innocent people into wrongdoing without their full understanding. We emphasise that those contacted are entitled to the same presumption of innocence as anyone else. We would love to share all the details, who’s being investigated, by whom, and for what reason. Unfortunately, the law prevents us from doing so.
Until the investigations are complete, all persons concerned are entitled to the presumption of innocence and anonymity.
As and when disclosure becomes legally permissible, Samson Rising will report in the public interest.
Questions for Reflection
We hope these developments spark honest conversations within CFO congregations:
• Which leaders led congregants into the current circumstances?
• Were the extreme policies taught by the CFO – such as cutting off loved ones – ever worth it?
• Can a path be created to move away from such harmful practices?
• And who will lead that change in direction?
We welcome any comment from CFO leadership, particularly if a change of direction is being considered. We would also welcome steps toward accountability, including leadership changes where appropriate. Like everyone who has followed the CFO story over many decades, we would all love to see the organisation become a place of safety, respect, and healing-rather than control.
The Samson Rising Approach Is Working
These investigations would not be underway without the growing movement launched by Samson Rising 11 months ago. The results speak for themselves.
Of the 58 formal written complaints lodged, all complainants remain anonymous. A small number of complainants have chosen to identify themselves directly to regulators. They took this step in their own time and after becoming familiar with the investigative process.
Their courage deserves public recognition.
More Investigations Expected
As our processes become more streamlined, we believe more alleged victims will come forward – knowing their complaints can be made safely, and regulators will act.
We have lodged complaints with:
The Reportable Conduct Scheme – which requires certain organisations to respond to allegations of child abuse and other child-related misconduct.
Police in multiple States – Investigations include child abuse, physical and psychological abuse.
Australian Charities and Not for Profits Commission – which enforces compliance with Australian laws by charities such as the CFO, which is registered under the category of ‘Advancing Religion’
Samson Rising will continue to assist with these investigations and stand beside all survivors and families who have shown immense courage by speaking out.
For important legal reasons, no further comment will be made while investigations are active.
However, based on legal advice and the number of additional complaints now being prepared, we believe further inquiries are likely to follow.
Next Steps
While these investigations bring hope, they are not the end of our work. Many stories remain unheard, and the journey toward full accountability has only begun.
We are currently taking legal advice about lodging all 58 complaints with State-based regulators such as the Office of Fair Trading and Consumer Affairs Victoria.
We encourage those who feel ready to share their accounts safely, anonymously, and in their own time. Every story adds momentum to the call for justice and reform throughout the CFO community.
Two test cases are also being prepared:
• one concerning alleged family-law coercion and ostracisation, and
• another seeking financial compensation directly from CFO branches that allegedly implemented policies of cutting off family members.
These test cases are being developed on a no-win-no-fee basis and structured to ensure any future judgments or compensation orders can be satisfied, regardless of internal restructuring within the CFO.
If successful, these test cases may become a template for others to bring claims.
Please understand these endeavours take time. During this period, we may publish fewer articles while we focus resources on preparing evidence and legal submissions.
A Time to Acknowledge Courage
To those who have endured alleged mistreatment, ostracism, coercion, or psychological harm-whether you still attend the CFO or not, this moment is for you.
May it bring hope, validation, and a renewed belief in the future.
May truth, compassion, and accountability help heal broken families and guide the CFO community toward reform.
If you have information relevant to these investigations or wish to lodge your own complaint, you can do so safely here:
Automated Statement Generator: https://samsonrising.com.au/automated-statement-generator
Or by email: sa************@***il.com, where someone will offer assistance.
About Samson Rising
Samson Rising is a community-led reform movement supporting survivors of abuse in faith-based organisations across Australia.
On behalf of the entire team,
Samson
Disclaimer
Samson Rising reports on matters of public interest based on information provided by complainants and supporting documentation where available.
We have not received direct confirmation from investigative authorities because these agencies are not free to give us this information.
All persons mentioned or implied are entitled to the presumption of innocence unless and until proven otherwise.
Nothing in this statement should be read as alleging guilt or misconduct by any individual or organisation.
Anonymous – Samson
Lisa Hunt is a writer, survivor advocate, and former pastor with over three decades of leadership and community work. After leaving a high-control religious system, she dedicated her life to amplifying survivor voices and pursuing accountability for organisations that cause harm.
