This article contains references to sexual abuse.
Brian Houston has resigned from the Hillsong Church amid allegations the global pastor mistreated two women and ahead of a trial over charges he hid his father's alleged child abuse.
"We would like to advise you that Pastor Brian Houston has resigned as Global Senior Pastor of Hillsong Church and the board has accepted his resignation," the global board said in a statement on Wednesday.
"We understand there will be much emotion at this news, and we all share these feelings.
"Irrespective of the circumstances around this, we can all agree that Brian and (his wife) Bobbie have served God faithfully over many decades and that their ministry has resulted in millions of people across the world being impacted by the power, grace, and love of Jesus Christ."
The resignation follows an apology issued by the church on Friday over allegations of Mr Houston's conduct towards two women.
About 10 years ago, Mr Houston allegedly sent inappropriate text messages to a staff member, while under the influence of sleeping tablets that he had become dependent on, and ended with the employee resigning, according to the board.
The second complaint was received by the church in 2019.
Brian Houston speaks on stage during the Hillsong Atlanta grand opening at Hillsong Atlanta on 6 June, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. Source: Getty / Marcus Ingram
An investigation launched by the global board found Mr Houston had breached the Hillsong Pastor's Code of Conduct and on Friday said, "This person did not deserve to be placed in the situation she found herself in."
The woman was refunded money she had donated to the church.
Following that investigation, . But according to the board he did not completed all the agreed-upon steps — that have not been detailed by the church — and he remained suspended, until Wednesday's resignation.
Mr Houston is also due to face court in NSW, set to face a three-week special hearing in December on charges .
In January, Mr Houston stepped down from all ministry responsibilities for the rest of the year, releasing a statement saying he welcomed the opportunity to "set the record straight".
The Hillsong global board said on Wednesday, "Change is needed".
"We have committed to an independent review of our governance structure and processes, understanding that this is a time of humble reflection and we are committed to doing what is necessary to ensure God is honoured, and our eyes are fixed on Jesus," it said in a statement.
The Houstons founded Hillsong in 1983 in Sydney's western suburbs, with churches now in 30 countries and an average global attendance of 150,000 weekly, according to its website.
Anyone seeking information or support relating to sexual abuse can contact Bravehearts on 1800 272 831 or Blue Knot on 1300 657 380.
