Israel Folau's second fundraising effort has been paused by the Australian Christian Lobby after donations passed the AU$2 million mark.
The sacked former Wallabies player, who has asked his supporters to raise AU$3 million to fund his legal battle with Rugby Australia, has agreed to hit "the pause button" on donations.
By Thursday morning, the page had raised over AU$2.2 million (NZ$2.3m) from more than 20,000 donors.
This figure does not include the $100,000 pledge made by the Lobby to help Folau's legal proceedings.
The ACL page was established after crowdfunding site GoFundMe removed Folau's original fundraiser following intense backlash. The Lobby claimed they would host Folau's campaign "because it's right" to "stand for your religious freedom".
On Thursday, the Lobby wrote: "ACL, Izzy, and everyone involved is humbled and grateful.
"We are hitting the pause button.
"If the case drags on and Israel needs more support, we will reopen this campaign.
"For now, we are thrilled that Izzy is not only supported, but a great movement of quiet Australians have found their voice. This cannot be ignored."
After a number of social media posts criticising the LGBTQI community on the basis of his Christian faith, Folau's contract was terminated as he was found in breach of Rugby Australia's commitment to inclusiveness.
A conciliation conference for Folau's case is scheduled for 9:30am (local time) before the Fair Work Commission on Friday.
Newshub.
