UPDATE: Bruce Lehrmann, the former federal political staffer accused of raping Brittany Higgins, has launched an urgent appeal against a damaging defamation ruling, labeling himself a “national joke.” This appeal follows a April 2024 court decision where Federal Court Justice Michael Lee found that Higgins’ claims of rape were proven on the balance of probabilities.
Lehrmann’s appeal comes on the heels of extensive media coverage, particularly from Network Ten and journalist Lisa Wilkinson, which has intensified public scrutiny and resulted in a wave of online vitriol directed at him. In court on Wednesday, Lehrmann’s attorney, Zali Burrows, stated that her client is “probably the most damaged man in Australia,” highlighting the severe impact of social media commentary fueled by the defamation case.
The ruling, which Lehrmann is contesting, included Justice Lee’s remark that “having escaped the lions’ den, Mr. Lehrmann made the mistake of going back for his hat,” referencing his failed defamation attempt. Burrows argued that the findings in this case diverged significantly from the facts presented by Network Ten, asserting that Lehrmann was taken aback by the judge’s interpretation of events during the cross-examination process.
During the appeal, Lehrmann maintained his stance that he did not sexually assault Higgins and criticized the characterization of the incident as “violent.” He contended that Justice Lee had adopted a “softer” narrative surrounding the events. However, Matt Collins KC, representing Network Ten, countered that all rape is inherently violent, asserting that the circumstances surrounding the incident were clearly defined by Higgins’ intoxication and lack of consent.
Collins emphasized that Lehrmann’s actions—continuing to engage in sexual activity while knowing Higgins was seriously intoxicated—demonstrated a reckless disregard for her consent, which he argued should negate any claims for damages. “That is not a man with any reputation in respect of sexual morality that would warrant compensation,” Collins stated.
Furthermore, Sue Chrysanthou SC, representing Wilkinson, echoed this sentiment, arguing that Lehrmann’s indifference to Higgins’ condition amounted to “intentional rape,” as understood by societal standards. She asserted that a young man aware of a woman’s severe intoxication cannot reasonably claim that she can give consent.
As the appeal unfolds, it places both Lehrmann’s future and Higgins’ allegations back into the spotlight. The public and media attention remains heightened, with an impending decision from the Western Australian Supreme Court regarding a separate defamation case involving former Liberal senator Linda Reynolds against Higgins scheduled for next Wednesday.
The ramifications of this ongoing legal battle extend beyond individual reputations, delving into societal perceptions of consent, gender dynamics, and the broader discourse surrounding sexual assault allegations.
For those seeking support, the National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service can be reached at 1800 211 028 or 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).
This developing story continues to evoke strong emotions and will be closely followed as both sides prepare for the next phase in court.
