The AFL Appeal Board's decision to substantially reduce a penalty imposed for a homophobic slur is appalling, and its statement of reasons makes it even worse, the Greens say.
"Homophobia should have no place in the AFL, or our society more broadly, and the AFL Commission needs to intervene and make that clear," Greens LGBTIQA+ spokesperson Senator Nick McKim said.
"Justifying homophobia and other forms of discriminatory language because football is a 'hard game' and 'competitive' is nothing short of disgraceful."
"This would not fly in any other workplace in the country and nor should it."
"This ruling is a green light for homophobia and shows the AFL is not serious about fighting for equality."
"The totally backwards logic that underpins this decision is a slap in the face to queer Australians, particularly those who have been made to feel unwelcome in Aussie rules."
"The AFL as an organisation and as the custodian of a beloved sport, has fallen badly short here."
"It should be taking a leadership role to stamp out homophobia, and that means no longer excusing homophobia."
