Appointing elders is one of the most critical and challenging steps in a church plant. Appoint them too soon and you risk handing authority to those not ready; wait too long and the planter carries an unsustainable load. Drawing from Paul’s guidance in Titus and 1 Timothy, we explore the six key categories of elder qualifications—competency, character, domestic mandate, financial

What does it really take to plant a church? In part two of this series, we unpack five more essential questions that go beyond plans and strategies to focus on character, calling, faith, and the ability to lead and gather a team. These insights will help you to help leaders discern if they’re truly ready for the church planting journey.

Five keys for meaningful evangelism: know your community, build real relationships, be present, share stories, and invite without pressure. Practical steps for church planters and leaders who want to see the Gospel take root.

When someone senses a call to church planting, the natural response is to dive straight into training and equipping. But before taking that step, the wiser path is to begin with questions rather than advice. Asking the right questions brings clarity, helps potential planters understand what the journey may involve, and reveals whether planting is truly their next step. This

Recent research reveals four key insights: the greatest need is more church planters, raised through disciple-making and leadership pipelines; denominations with dedicated leaders driving planting see the most fruit; no single model works everywhere, but diverse approaches are essential; and multiplication ministries remain an underused but valuable resource. Together, these findings highlight both the challenges and opportunities as we seek

When it comes to church planting in Australia, one size does not fit all. From simple churches and missional communities to regional and multi-site models, different approaches are needed to reach different people. Some denominations formalise their strategies, while others adapt to context and calling - but the common thread is clear: healthy, disciple-making churches come in many forms. The

Starting a new church is an exciting journey — full of vision, hope, and the joy of gathering people around God’s mission. Alongside the excitement and mission is an important factor: laying the right foundations of governance, compliance, and risk management.

Which denominations are leading the way in planting new churches across Australia? Recent data reveals that while Pentecostal churches plant at three times the rate of non-Pentecostal churches, some surprising names make the top of the list. The clear takeaway: denominations that prioritise dedicated leaders for church planting see the most growth.

Church planting in Australia is on the rise and the momentum is encouraging. While NCLS research showed an 8% decline in Protestant churches from 2016–2021, new data reveals a 22% increase in church plants in the past year alone. This growth, consistent with denominational surveys, signals a renewed appetite for multiplication across tribes and denominations. Yet, with Exponential Australia’s 2032

The Exponential National Conference: Greater Things to be held on the Gold Coast, August 6–7, 2025 is designed with planters in mind. This is more than an event. It’s a space where church planters can find their tribe, share their story, and realise, “I’m not alone.” We want to fuel the fire God has already lit within them; to inspire,