Former Wallabies fullback Israel Folau has officially commenced legal action for unlawful termination against his former employer, Rugby Australia (RA).
The 30-year-old Folau is suing the governing body and New South Wales Waratahs for unlawful termination under the Fair Work Act, arguing RA ended his four-year, multimillion-dollar contract because of his religion.
The controversial Folau’s contract was terminated after the dual international posted on social media a paraphrased Bible passage, stating ‘drunks, homosexuals, adulterers, liars, fornicators, thieves, atheists and idolaters’ would go to hell unless they repented.
He is seeking $10 million in damages from RA and wants his contract reinstated.
His legal team, led by Melbourne lawyer George Haros, filed the claim in the Federal Circuit Court late on Wednesday, after mediation failed before the Fair Work Commission in June.
The development has raised the prospect of a directions hearing taking place while Australia is embroiled in a tough World Cup campaign in Japan.
I confirm I have commenced court proceedings against Rugby Australia and NSW Waratahs. Thank you to those who have supported me over this journey – it has meant so much to Maria and me. God bless. pic.twitter.com/Ojgw9uRw79
— Israel Folau (@IzzyFolau) July 31, 2019
Photo: Getty Images
