Cult Conversations

What makes something a cult—and how do we recognise its impact? This panel brings together voices from across Australia and Aotearoa to explore the intersection of cult dynamics, religious trauma, and spiritual abuse.

Tore shares his lived experience and work with CIFS Australia. Laura reflects on growing up in ‘The Truth’ and her ongoing advocacy. Anke explores the media’s role and how DECULT began, while Caroline highlights the need for medical and allied health education, especially around the body’s response to trauma.

Together, they unpack common patterns of control, the obsession cults often have with sex and purity, and the power of naming what happened. Plus—some favourite resources that have helped along the way.

We acknowledge the Indigenous people of the lands we have recorded on. Our speakers and hosts are located on Aboriginal Country all across the lands now called Australia and Maori lands across Aoteoroa. We pay our respect to Indigenous elders who are custodians of these lands and extend that respect to any Indigenous people attending our event.