Wallabies star Israel Folau is once again embroiled in a social media scandal after the fullback took to both Instagram and Twitter with anti-LGBTI+ views on Wednesday.
In what has become a semi-regular occurrence for the Wallabies and Waratahs player, Folau, 30, shared anti-gay sentiments in a scathing post to Instagram which declared that "hell awaits" homosexuals. The gif which listed homosexuals as well as drunks, adulterers, liars, fornicators, thieves, atheists and idolators warned that they should repent and that "only Jesus saves".
He also posted to Twitter a screenshot of the news that Tasmania had become the first state to make genders optional on birth certificates, accompanied by the words: "The devil has blinded so many people in this world, REPENT and turn away from your evil ways. Turn to Jesus Christ who will set you free."
In a statement released on Wednesday night, Rugby Australia said the posts were "unacceptable".
"Rugby Australia is aware of a post made by Israel Folau on his Instagram account this afternoon," the statement said.
"The content within the post is unacceptable. It does not represent the values of the sport and is disrespectful to members of the Rugby community.
"The Rugby Australia integrity unit has been engaged on the matter tonight."
This latest stunt comes a year to the day after he met with high ranking rugby officials including Rugby Australia CEO Raelene Castle in an attempt to tone down his divisive use of social media, following a similar outburst on Twitter in the weeks prior.
"Rugby Australia's got a policy and position of inclusion and using social media with respect," Castle said last April.
Folau was not reprimanded by Rugby Australia or the Waratahs at the time.
Last month, Folau signed a four-year deal with the Waratahs and Wallabies, which would see him through until the end of 2022.
