Israel Folau has launched legal action against Rugby Australia and club side the Waratahs after his playing contract was terminated over controversial social media posts.
Folau's £2.15million, four-year deal was cut short after an independent panel backed RA's position that the comments he made on April 10 warranted his sacking rather than a fine or suspension.
The 30-year-old devout Christian said on his Instagram account that "hell awaits" for "drunks, homosexuals, adulterers, liars, fornicators, thieves, atheists, idolaters".
Legal representatives for Folau have confirmed they have filed an application to the Australian Fair Work Commission and are seeking a declaration that his employment was unlawfully terminated because of his religion.
And Folau's claims for damages could well bankrupt Rugby Australia and the Warrtahs, with the Sydney Morning Herald reporting the superstar full-back is seeking a £5.5 million ($10m) pay-out.
He will pursue damages including the value of his contract as well as the monetary value of other lost opportunities.
"The termination has cost Mr Folau the best years of his rugby career, participation at the Rugby World Cup, the chance to become the greatest Wallaby try-scorer (a decades-old record he was likely to break), and the associated exposure and opportunities," Folau's application stated.
"As well as around A$5 million in lost salary, Mr Folau will claim in respect of the loss of these opportunities (renewal of contract, sponsorships, etc).
"The damages will be particularised in due course, but will be substantial. In addition, Mr Folau will seek civil penalties."
Folau, who also played rugby league for the Melbourne Storm and Brisbane Broncos before switching codes, said: "I will forever be grateful and proud to have played the sport I love for our nation.
"Ours is an amazing country built on important principles, including freedom of religion. A nation made up of so many different faiths and cultural backgrounds will never be truly rich unless this freedom applies to all of us.
"The messages of support we have received over these difficult few weeks have made me realise there are many Australians who feel their fundamental rights are being steadily eroded.
"No Australian of any faith should be fired for practising their religion."
Rugby Australia has already budgeted for a loss of $8m this financial year, with Australia media reporting a loss in the Folau case with plunge the union into financial turmoil.
