Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has slammed the “absolutely appalling” views of incoming Essendon CEO Andrew Thorburn’s church.
The Bombers announced Thorburn’s appointment on Monday, with his church’s stance of abortion and same-sex relationships coming to light just hours after the appointment.
“The appointment of a CEO to a club is a matter for the board of that football club,” Mr Andrews said in a press conference on Tuesday.
“Those views are absolutely appalling, I don’t support those views. That kind of intolerance and hatred is just wrong. That’s not the first time I’ve made that point.
“There are many reasons to be a somewhat disappointed Essendon supporter, but this is matter for the board.”
Thorburn told SEN Breakfast earlier on Tuesday that it was vital that all views in society were able to be expressed, no matter how controversial they are.
The former NAB CEO’s appointment at Essendon comes after the club named Brad Scott as their senior coach for next season.