A DAMAGING rift in the Katter party over its stance towards gay people is widening, with a member criticising its "homophobic image".

Terri Bell says Katter's Australian Party (KAP) should have scolded suspended member Bernard Gaynor for saying on Twitter that he wouldn't let gay teachers educate his children.

"KAP national director Aidan McLindon should have publicly denounced these offensive statements," the former state candidate said.

"However, due to the party headquarters tolerance of such views, no such press release was issued."

Ms Bell, who was endorsed by party founder Bob Katter to become the KAP national general secretary, claims if she had been nominated she would have retracted Mr Gaynor's statements.

"All I wanted was to help steer the party in a new direction and away from the homophobic image," she said.

"I have a special needs son and would have no hesitation in allowing him to be taught by a homosexual.

"In fact, if he has been, I wouldn't know because a person's sexuality is their own business."

Earlier in the week, Mr Gaynor warned that Mr Katter was at odds with party president Max Menzel and Mr McLindon on the issue, and the divisions could kill the party.

Originally published as Katter party is 'homophobic': member