Treasurer describes Wallabies star as a ‘good man’ and applauds him for ‘standing up for his faith’

This article is more than 2 years old

This article is more than 2 years old

The federal treasurer, Scott Morrison, has backed Wallabies star Israel Folau’s “strong character” in standing up for his religious belief that gay people will go to hell unless they repent their sins.

Rugby Australia has opted not to sanction Folau after he made the comment on social media, despite sponsors raising concerns over his anti-homosexual views.

Morrison, a practising Christian, moved amendments to protect religious freedom that were voted down during last year’s parliamentary debate on same-sex marriage legislation. He said not everyone had to agree about religion but described Folau as a “good man”.

Facebook Twitter Pinterest Israel Folau said gay people would go to hell unless they repent their sins. Photograph: Patrick Hamilton/AFP/Getty Images

“It clearly means a lot to Izzy and good for him for standing up for his faith,” Morrison told News Corp’s Miranda Devine Live on Wednesday. “He wouldn’t have wanted to intend to have offended or hurt anyone because that’s very much against the faith that he feels so passionately about.

“But I think he’s shown a lot of strength of character in just standing up for what he believes in and I think that’s what this country is all about.”

Off contract at year’s end, Folau on Monday declared he was prepared to walk away from rugby if RA felt his views were hurting the sport.

Morrison – a diehard fan of NRL club Cronulla – said the code-hopping superstar was welcome at his beloved Sharks.

Folau publicly opposed Australia’s decision to legalise same-sex marriage last year.

Rugby Australia has disassociated itself from the views of Folau.

“Israel’s comment reflects his personal religious beliefs but it does not reflect the view of Rugby Australia or NSW Rugby,” chief executive Raelene Castle said.