Former Wallabies star Israel Folau has formally lodged court proceedings against Rugby Australia and NSW Rugby over his termination.
The 73-Test fullback was sacked in May after he was found guilty of a high-level Code of Conduct breach.
That code of conduct hearing came after he posted an image to Instagram saying drunks, homosexuals, adulterers, liars, fornicators, thieves, atheists and idolaters" would go to hell unless they repented.
Folau formally took the process to the next step after mediation with the Fair Work Commission failed in June, filing for unlawful termination this week.
The 30-year-old posted a video to his website late on Wednesday night confirming the news and tweeted on Thursday morning as well.
I confirm I have commenced court proceedings against Rugby Australia and NSW Waratahs. Thank you to those who have supported me over this journey – it has meant so much to Maria and me. God bless. pic.twitter.com/Ojgw9uRw79
— Israel Folau (@IzzyFolau) July 31, 2019
"Our conciliation before the Fair Work Commission did not resolve the matters between us," he said in a statement.
"Accordingly, I am today commencing court proceedings against Rugby Australia and the NSW Waratahs.
"I have been blessed to have received the support of tens of thousands of Australians throughout my journey, and I want to say thank you to everyone who has offered their prayers and support.
"It has meant so much to [my wife] Maria and me over the last few months and gives us strength for the road ahead."
Folau's contract was terminated in May after a three-day Code of Conduct hearing.
Rather than appeal that decision, Folau lodged an unfair dismissal claim with the Fair Work Commission, leading to the first step of attempted mediation between the two parties.
The matter will now progress into Federal Circuit Court, though there is no date yet set for a directions hearing that will begin the proceedings formally.
