Israel Folau seeking up to AUD$10 million in damages

Former Wallabies and NSW Waratahs star Israel Folau has launched legal proceedings with the Fair Work Commission against his former employers and is seeking up to AUD$10 million in damages.

The 30‑year‑old dual international had his contract terminated last month after an independent three‑person panel upheld Rugby Australia’s high level breach issued to him for his April 10 social media post.

The panel determined Folau had committed a “high level” breach of his contract after taking to Instagram last month to proclaim hell awaits “drunks, homosexuals, adulterers, liars, fornicators, thieves, atheists, idolators” unless they repent and turn to Jesus.

Folau will seek up to AUD$10 million in damages which includes the estimated AUD$1.2 million four‑year‑deal he was on.

Folau’s lawyers will also argue that his reputation has also been damaged as a result of his sacking and therefore he will pursue damages up to another AUD$5 million.

Rugby Australia released a hard‑hitting statement lastnight defending its decision to terminate Folau’s contract.

The statement reads “It is important to make clear that Rugby Australia and NSW Rugby did not choose to be in a position where they are forced to divert significant resources to defend the ongoing legal action taken by Israel, but his action leaves the game with no choice.

Foxsports