Former Wallabies star Israel Folau has finally settled his legal dispute with Rugby Australia.
Folau’s dismissal came after a controversial social media post in April, which stated homosexuals are destined for hell unless they repent their sins. The 30-year-old claimed that he was unlawfully sacked because of his religion by Rugby Australia.
Rugby Australia – who argued the termination for high-level misconduct was purely contractual – were facing financial ruin had it lost the bitter dispute, after Folau last week raised his compensation claim to A$14 million.
It was reported earlier this week that the two parties failed to reach a settlement on Monday, after a mediation session that lasted more than 12 hours.
However, a joint statement by Folau and the governing body released on Wednesday said an agreement had been reached, but that the terms of the settlement would remain confidential.
Watch: ‘Folau admitted he caused harm’
Both parties acknowledged the damage they had caused each other and subsequently apologised for any hurt or harm brought about during the dispute.
‘The Social Media Post reflected Mr Folau’s genuinely held religious beliefs, and Mr Folau did not intend to harm or offend any person when he uploaded the Social Media Post,’ read the statement.
‘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.’
Moreover, the statement added that Rugby Australia and NSW Rugby ‘do not in any way agree with the content’ of Folau’s post, and that while it was not the governing body’s intention, Rugby Australia apologised 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,’ added the statement.
‘Rugby Australia and Mr Folau wish each other well for the future. The Parties do not intend to comment further on the terms of their settlement as it is confidential.’
Photo: Darrian Traynor/Getty Images
