Andrew Thorburn.Credit:Jamie Brown
Thorburn made statements when he parted with Essendon that his concern was not about money but principle.
He said at the time that freedom of religion,conscience,thought and association were explicitly recognised as human rights under Victorian law.
“It is troubling that faith or association with a church,mosque,synagogue or temple could render a person immediately unsuited to holding a particular role,” Thorburn said in a statement at the time.
“That is a dangerous idea,one that will only reduce tolerance for others and diversity of thought and participation in our community and workplaces.”
A spokesman for Thorburn on Thursday said the former banker declined to comment on retaining legal counsel and any legal action against Essendon. An Essendon spokesman also declined to comment.
Thorburn was initially hired by Essendon to conduct a review of the board and the football club.