Updated July 09, 2019 11:32:54

Labor senator Penny Wong has used Q&A to deliver an emotional response to Israel Folau's social media commentary, saying: "I wish that public figures, politicians, sporting stars etc. might consider for a moment … where their words land in vulnerable Australians before they speak them."

Senator Wong was responding to a question from an audience member about whether the response to Folau's comments would be different if he were a Muslim rather than a Christian.

"I wish that we could have more expressions of love and forgiveness rather than condemnation when it came to belief," she said.

"He is entitled to his beliefs. I disagree with them, and I think we ought to remember he doesn't speak for all Christians."

Folau, the former Wallabies star, lost his rugby contract over a post in which he called on a range of "sinners", including homosexuals, to repent and turn to Jesus Christ, and thus be saved from an eternity in Hell.

Human rights lawyer Diana Sayed told the panel the Morrison Government — which is expected to table a religious discrimination bill later this year — must not "give people a licence to discriminate".

"It is really important that this bill strikes a balance that people who are free to practice their religion are not granted a licence to discriminate," she said.

Liberal senator Scott Ryan said legislation could not "peer into people's souls".

"I don't like laws going to motive. I like laws looking at actions."

Folau was sacked by Rugby Australia (RA) after posting views on social media that were deemed in breach of his contract.

He is arguing he was unfairly dismissed on religious grounds and is seeking $10 million in damages from RA.

Photo: Folau's post proclaimed hell awaits "drunks, homosexuals, adulterers, liars, fornicators, thieves, atheists and idolaters". (AAP: Joel Carrett)

Last month, he failed to reach a settlement with RA at his Fair Work Commission hearing, paving the way for a battle in the Federal Court.

"Very disappointed by the outcome," Folau said outside the hearing.

"I would like to thank all those who have supported me through this time. I'll continue to stand up for the freedoms of all Australians."

The former fullback also crowdfunded over $2 million to pay his legal fees, with the help of a $100,000 donation from the Australian Christian Lobby.

RA and NSW Rugby Union issued a joint statement after the hearing saying they were "incredibly disappointed that today's Fair Work conciliation has been unsuccessful and did not reach a resolution".

"We remain confident in our process and will continue to do what is required to defend the values that underpin our game," RA said.

Topics: sport, community-and-society, religion-and-beliefs, law-crime-and-justice, courts-and-trials, australia

First posted July 09, 2019 09:13:30