Hillsong accused of money laundering and tax evasion by Australian MP under parliamentary privilege

The independent MP Andrew Wilkie has used parliamentary privilege to level extraordinary claims of money laundering and tax evasion against Hillsong, producing what he claims are leaked documents from the mega-church that he says reveal it earned $80m more than what it has publicly declared.

Wilkie alleged the leaked financial records and documents were provided to the Australian Taxation Office and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, and was critical they had not been acted on.

Wilkie, the member for Clark, spoke in the Federation Chamber to claim a whistleblower had last year provided him with financial records and board papers related to Hillsong. He alleged they showed evidence of fraud, money laundering and tax evasion at the church, founded by pastor Brian Houston.

Hillsong was contacted for comment.

Wilkie also raised concerns about honorariums and air fares offered to visiting overseas pastors.

The statement said the church was updating structures to be more accountable and transparent.

Wilkie claimed in parliament that the ATO and Asic did not act when the documents were provided to them under whistleblower protections.

An ATO spokesperson said it could not comment on tax affairs of any individual or entity, citing legal obligations of confidentiality.