Legal opinions split on whether Andrew Thorburn could argue discrimination over Essendon resignation

One lawyer says the matter contrasts with Israel Folau's sacking, as views weren't actually expressed

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Employment lawyers are split on whether former Essendon chief executive Andrew Thorburn has a case for unlawful dismissal after he was forced to choose between the job and his role as chair of a controversial church, sparking a national debate on religious freedoms.

Despite the furore, the federal Labor government maintains it won't be moved into acting on religious discrimination before the end of the year.