Media Release

Will Israel Folau be free to speak in the future?

The Australian Christian Lobby cautiously welcomed news today that Australian Wallabies player, Israel Folau, has not been disciplined for making social media comments expressing mainstream religious beliefs.

“It is pleasing to see that Falou has not been overtly disciplined for speaking about his faith,” ACL Managing Director Martyn Iles said.

“ACL is concerned that the so-called ‘ongoing dialogue’ with Rugby Australia about Falou’s appropriate use of social media could stifle his freedom to speak openly about his faith and marginalise his Christian identity into the future.

“The real test will be whether Falou continues to have the same freedom as other players to speak up for his beliefs, which are shared by millions of Australians.

Mr Iles said Falou should never have been hauled before Rugby bosses to explain his actions.

“It is likely that the handling of this incident has set a precedent in Rugby Australia and other sporting codes where the ability of players to articulate mainstream Christian views is chilled. This is discrimination against people of faith in sport,” he said.

Mr Iles said it was particularly disappointing to see Qantas, our national airline, suggesting it may withdraw sponsorship because a Christian player had expressed his views when asked a direct question.

More media releases…

A Lament for Babies we Kill

Will you hear my cry?Or will you let me die? Before I see the light Or jump up high in delight So many like me will dieO will you hear my cry? With the

Canberra’s Calvary

The closure of a Catholic hospital has become a matter of life, death and conscience.Has Canberra become a hostile environment for those of religious faith?Many observers of the compulsory acquisition

WA: Abortion laws to change…for the worse

In November 2022 the McGowan Government announced that it was moving to modernise WA’s abortion laws. Public submissions were called for.  ACL provided a detailed and well-researched submission.  The Health Department

Qld: Sex Self-ID Bill final vote

The ACL along with over 175 organisations and individuals who made submissions opposingthe Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Bill (2022) will be carefully watching theQueensland Parliament during its next sitting