Reports have emerged that the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission have been asked to look into the Australian Christian Lobby’s fundraiser for rugby star Israel Folau.

Sydney Morning Herald have revealed that multiple sources have told the publication that they have contacted the ACNC over the ACL’s involvement in raising money for Folau’s bid to take legal action against Rugby Australia following the termination of his contract.

The ACNC have released a statement, saying they expect “all registered charities to meet their obligations under the ACNC Act and the Governance standards.”

“The ACNC can investigate concerns that a charity has breached the ACNC Act of the Governance Standards,” the statement reads.

“This may include not pursuing its charitable purpose, not operating in a not-for-profit manner, or providing benefits to members.”

We have received multiple requests to comment on ACL’s decision to support Israel Folau’s fundraising efforts. We remind the public that we cannot comment on the circumstances of individual charities. When a charity has acted inappropriately, we will use our powers to investigate

— ACNC (@ACNC_gov_au) June 25, 2019

Just hours after GoFundMe pulled down Folau’s fundraiser saying it breached their terms of service, the scheme has reappeared on the Australian Christian Lobby’s website.

Managing Director Martyn Iles said his organisation would be donating $100,000 to the rugby player as he once again tries to raise $3 million for his legal action against his former employer, Rugby Australia.

The Australian Christian Lobby describes itself as a grassroots movement made up of over 135,000 individuals who seeking to bring a Christian influence to politics. The majority of the organisation’s output in recent years has focused on opposing LGBTI rights.

The Australian Christian Lobby’s new campaign to support Folau has passed the $1 million mark, less than 24 hours after the original campaign was taken down.

OIP Staff