UPDATE: A court has confirmed that Justice Michael Lee was “distracted” by allegations of a parliamentary cover-up while ruling that Bruce Lehrmann likely raped his then-colleague Brittany Higgins in 2019. This shocking revelation was brought to light during ongoing legal proceedings regarding Lehrmann’s defamation lawsuit against Network Ten and journalist Lisa Wilkinson.
In a pivotal moment during the court session, held earlier today, Lehrmann’s lawyer argued that the judge’s focus on alleged political cover-ups detracted from the serious nature of the rape allegations. The ruling, revealed in April 2024, found that Lehrmann was likely guilty based on the balance of probabilities. His legal team is now appealing the decision, seeking over $20,000 in damages and claiming procedural unfairness.
Wilkinson’s defense emphasized that her reporting in 2021 on The Project was both reasonable and substantiated by compelling evidence of Higgins’ claims. Sue Chrysanthou SC, representing Wilkinson, argued that the alleged cover-up should have been treated separately from the assault claims, stating, “His Honour was distracted by the so-called cover-up when he should have focused on the rape.”
Justice Lee criticized Wilkinson and Network Ten for their handling of the allegations, asserting they should have regarded the intertwined cover-up claims as implausible. However, Chrysanthou contended that substantial evidence, including communications with a rape crisis center in Canberra, validated Wilkinson’s actions prior to the broadcast.
“By the time of broadcast, there was no doubt in my client’s mind of contemporaneous reports of rape,” said Chrysanthou. “They didn’t just blindly believe them, they asked people: ‘Is this right?'”
Lehrmann’s allegations remain unresolved, as he has not been convicted of any related offenses. The court was informed that he received inquiries regarding his response to the allegations only after the broadcast had aired. Chrysanthou argued that it was not Wilkinson’s responsibility to contact him about the claims directly.
The case encapsulates a significant moment in Australia’s ongoing discussions about sexual assault and media responsibility. With emotions running high, the court proceedings are expected to garner further public interest as they unfold. Lehrmann’s appeal will be closely monitored, as it seeks to overturn Justice Lee’s ruling on multiple grounds, including claims of misinterpretation regarding the definition of rape.
The ramifications of this case extend beyond the courtroom, highlighting the urgent need for accountability in both political and media spheres. As the legal battle continues, advocates for survivors of sexual assault are watching closely, emphasizing the importance of justice and support for victims.
For immediate support, individuals can contact 1800 RESPECT at 1800 737 732, a national sexual abuse and redress support service.
