In March 2007, Hillsong Kiev planted an offshoot church in Moscow, which started regular services in July 2007. During the 1990s, Kiev Christian Life Centre, now Hillsong Kiev, and London Christian Life Centre, now Hillsong London, were planted from Hillsong Church as independent churches. A new convention centre at the church's 'Hills' location, was opened on 19 October 2002 by John Howard, the then Prime Minister of Australia. In 1997, the church moved into its new building at Baulkham Hills' Norwest Business Park. Originally, services were held at the Baulkham Hills Public School hall. This was a result of strategic marketing that targeted younger generations and Hillsong's success at establishing itself as a global music standard. Through the 1980s and 1990s, the congregation grew from 45 members to nearly 20,000 and emerged as a significant influence in the area of contemporary worship music. The music of Hillsong United and Hillsong Worship are credited with driving Hillsong's global popularity. Hillsong is a megachurch that has been described by popular music scholar Tom Wagner as a 'confluence of sophisticated marketing techniques and popular music'. 10.10 60 Minutes sexual assault coverage.10.6 Stance on homosexuality and same-sex marriage.10.5 Michael Guglielmucci cancer scandal.10.2 Founder's lack of reporting of child sexual abuse by his father.Politicians, media, community groups, Christian leaders and former members have expressed concerns and criticisms toward Hillsong, including their finances, ties to controversial groups, treatment of critics and the conduct of the founder and other important members. Until separating from the denomination in 2018, Hillsong was a member of the Australian Christian Churches (the Australian branch of the Assemblies of God). Hillsong is primarily known for its worship music, with groups such as Hillsong Worship, Hillsong United and Hillsong Young & Free. The church, originally called Hills Christian Life Centre, was established in 1983 in Baulkham Hills, New South Wales, by Brian Houston and his wife Bobbie. Hillsong Church, commonly known as Hillsong, is a global charismatic Christian megachurch based in Australia.

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