UPDATE: Brittany Higgins expressed relief and a sense of freedom after Bruce Lehrmann’s high-profile appeal against a defamation ruling was officially rejected today. The full court of the Federal Court upheld a previous decision that found Lehrmann had, on the balance of probabilities, raped Higgins in Parliament House in 2019.
In a powerful statement shared on social media, Higgins declared, “Finally, it feels like I can breathe again.” She thanked the court for its decision, emphasizing the broader implications of the ruling. “While on the face of it this was a defamation case against a media outlet, in reality, this was once again a rape trial,” she stated.
Justice Michael Lee’s ruling from April 2024 confirmed that Lehrmann had sexually assaulted Higgins after a night out. Lehrmann, who has consistently denied the allegations, initiated the defamation lawsuit against Network Ten and journalist Lisa Wilkinson following an interview Higgins gave on The Project in 2021.
Higgins highlighted the traumatic experience of facing a legal battle with her alleged rapist. “I cannot begin to tell you how retraumatizing it is to have your rapist weaponize the legal system against you for daring to speak out,” she added. This sentiment resonates with many who have encountered similar struggles, especially in the wake of the #MeToo movement, where perpetrators are increasingly using legal tactics to silence survivors.
Lehrmann was not present in court for today’s hearing and was represented by lawyer Zali Burrows, who indicated that her client is “overwhelmed” by the ruling and is considering applying for special leave to contest the decision in the High Court. Following the initial defamation loss, Lehrmann was directed to pay $2 million in damages and is now also responsible for covering the legal costs of his opponents during the appeal.
In a troubling twist, Lehrmann is scheduled to face court again tomorrow, November 20, 2024, in Hobart regarding car theft charges. He is accused of stealing a Toyota Prado in southern Tasmania. A warrant for his arrest was issued on November 6 after he failed to appear for a preliminary hearing, although it has since remained inactive. Magistrate Robert Webster warned that it could be activated if Lehrmann does not appear in court tomorrow and provide a medical certificate to justify his previous absence.
This case continues to unfold, with significant implications not only for the parties involved but also for the broader conversation about sexual violence and the legal challenges survivors face. For those affected, support is available through the National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service at 1800 211 028 or 1800 RESPECT at 1800 737 732.
As the legal battles persist, many will be watching closely how this case influences the discourse around sexual assault and the rights of survivors in Australia and beyond.
