Church of Scientology withdraws ANZAC campaign

7 News, Australia/September 15, 2014

The Church of Scientology in Australia has apologised for using the word ANZAC in a fundraising campaign.

The religious organisation wants to renovate a heritage building in Auckland and turn it into a church. It has asked followers in Australia to donate AU$10,000 each.

In return donators would be awarded the title ANZAC, but the word has been protected since 1916. Organisations that use it without permission can be fined up to $50,000.

The church has now withdrawn the ANZAC campaign and apologised for any offence caused.

"We mean no disrespect to anyone, particularly those people who gave their lives for both countries," the church told 7 News in a statement.

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