The counterculture movement during the 1960’s and early 1970’s brought about a spiritual awakening, although much was other than a Jesus-centred faith. There was the rise of the occult, eastern mysticism, sectarian religious groups and Transcendental Meditation. 

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God was moving by His Spirit on a worldwide front. Notably was the so-called ‘Charismatic Movement’ especially in mainline churches, but also parallel to the established church in what was to be commonly called the ‘Jesus Movement’. Elements of conservatism in the church began to be challenged around Australia through the outspokenness of John Smith from Melbourne, John Hirt from Sydney, Athol Gill from Melbourne and Mal Garvin from Teen Crusaders, just to name a few.

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Several people from South Australia were key in the early day foundation of a group that was to become the ‘Adelaide Jesus Centre’ or more commonly known as the ‘Jesus Centre’.