FOLAU’S BIGGEST TRY IS CONVERTED
ISRAEL Folau claimed “vindication” after receiving an apology and confidential multimillion-dollar payout from Rugby Australia after an eight-month legal saga.
The matter was resolved yesterday in mediation, allowing both parties to walk away before it reached court.
The payout is thought to be $2 million to $4 million, however strict confidentiality agreements mean the exact figure remains unknown.
“With today’s acknowledgment and apology by Rugby Australia, we have been vindicated and can now move on with our lives to focus on our faith and our family,” Folau said in a video after the hearing.
Hours earlier, RA had released a statement saying: “While it was not Rugby Australia’s intention, Rugby Australia acknowledges and apologises for any hurt or harm caused to the Folaus. Similarly, Mr Folau did not intend to hurt or harm the game of rugby and acknowledges and apologises for any hurt or harm caused.”
Folau called on the Australian Government to strengthen laws to protect religious expression, after his total $5.7 million contract was terminated by RA and NSW Rugby because the Wallabies star posted a meme on Instagram warning that gays were destined for hell unless they repented.
“We started this journey on behalf of all people of faith to protect their rights of freedom of speech and religion,” Folau said. “We now look forward to the Federal Government enacting the legislation necessary to further protect and strengthen these rights.”
RA chief executive Raelene Castle negotiated the settlement deal via teleconference from Sydney.
In their statement, RA reiterated it could not tolerate Folau’s controversial views.
“Mr Folau wants all Australians to know that he does not condone discrimination of any kind against any person on the grounds of their sexuality and that he shares Rugby Australia’s commitment to inclusiveness and diversity,’ the RA statement said.
“Rugby Australia and NSW Rugby do not in any way agree with the content of the social media post.
“Inclusiveness is one of rugby’s core values and it welcomes all people to the game, including all members of the LGBTI community.”
Folau had managed to raise $2 million for his legal campaign from donors through the Australian Christian Lobby.