Israel Folau was a professional rugby player for NSW and the Australian national rugby team, the Wallabies. In May 2019, Folau’s employment was terminated by Rugby Australia for posting a Bible verse on social media which warned various categories of people (including homosexuals) that hell awaits unless they repent and turn to Jesus Christ. Rugby Australia determined that Folau’s personal posts violated Rugby Australia’s commitment to inclusivity, diversity and acceptance that constituted a high-level breach of the Union’s Professional Players Code of Conduct. In a high profile case, Folau commenced legal action against Rugby Australia for unlawful termination because of his religion under the Federal Fair Work Act (having no recourse under current NSW state law). Rugby Australia issued an apology and confidentially settled with Folau for an undisclosed amount.
