Christian couple who weren't allowed to adopt a child 'because they believe being gay is a sin' take foster home to court for 'religious discrimination'
A devout Christian couple who believe being gay is a sin are taking a foster home to court for 'religious discrimination'.
Byron and Keira Hordyk, from Perth, put in an application with Wanslea Family Services to become foster parents in January 2017.
A formal assessment begun and the married couple, who have children of their own, were questioned on how they would respond to a foster child who identified as LGBTQI.
The Hordyks spoke openly about their devout Christian beliefs and indicated homosexuality is a sin that can be resisted.
Byron and Keira Hordyk, from Perth, put in an application with Wanslea Family Services to become foster parents in January 2017
The couple also suggested they would be able to help the child overcome their sexuality, adding that their beliefs would not impede on their ability to care for a foster child.
In September 2017, the Hordyks received a letter from Wanslea which said they were denied their application because they did not meet one of the five competencies defined by the Department of Communities for foster carers - providing a safe living environment.
The couple's case will be heard by State Administrative Tribunal president Justice Janine Pritchard next month. Wanslea had attempted to get the case dismissed.
'We do feel we have been discriminated against and also we felt that if we were quiet about this and didn't say anything about it, it could potentially harm or limit any people with the same Christian values as ours from fostering,' Mr Hordyk told The West Australian.
'We hold traditional Christian views on how the Bible teaches us on sexuality and marriage.
The Hordyks spoke openly about their devout Christian beliefs and indicated homosexuality is a sin that can be resisted (stock image)
'We stated it from the beginning. We are not here to hide behind it. Everyone — particularly with a divisive issue — is afraid of being put into the realm of public opinion in a negative light. And my beliefs are strong enough that this might be my cross to bear.'
Ms Hordyk said she would refrain from social media during the trial, due to likely backlash from the community.
The couple will use two sections of the Equal Opportunity Act to argue their case of discrimination based on religious convictions.
They will be represented by Perth barrister Steven Penglis.
In September 2017, the Hordyks received a letter from Wanslea which said they were denied their application because they did not meet one of the five competencies defined by the Department of Communities for foster carers - providing a safe living environment