UPDATE: Brittany Higgins expressed immense relief today after Bruce Lehrmann’s high-profile appeal against a defamation ruling was officially denied. The decision, confirmed by the full court of the Federal Court on Wednesday, upholds the earlier finding that Lehrmann raped Higgins at Parliament House in 2019.
In a powerful statement on social media, Higgins shared her emotional reaction: “Finally, it feels like I can breathe again.” She thanked the court for its ruling, emphasizing, “While on the face of it this was a defamation case against a media outlet, in reality this was once again a rape trial.”
Lehrmann, a former Liberal staffer, had sued Network Ten and journalist Lisa Wilkinson for defamation following an interview on The Project in 2021 where Higgins detailed her assault. The court ruled in April 2024 that Lehrmann had, on the balance of probabilities, committed the act against Higgins. Following the appeal, he is now liable for $2 million in damages and must cover the legal costs of Network Ten and Wilkinson.
Lehrmann’s lawyer, Zali Burrows, stated that he is “overwhelmed” by the court’s decision and is considering applying for special leave to contest the ruling in the High Court. Lehrmann did not appear in court during the appeal proceedings.
The implications of this ruling extend beyond the courtroom, as Higgins highlights the broader issue of how legal actions are increasingly weaponized against survivors. “I cannot begin to tell you how retraumatising it is to have your rapist weaponise the legal system against you for daring to speak out,” she stated.
This legal battle comes amid heightened attention on the #MeToo movement and the challenges faced by victims who choose to come forward. Higgins’ case underscores the struggles many survivors encounter when confronting their perpetrators.
In a separate legal matter, Lehrmann is set to appear in court in Hobart on November 20, 2024, facing charges related to the theft of a Toyota Prado. A warrant for his arrest was previously issued after he failed to attend a preliminary hearing. His lawyer cited urgent medical issues as the reason for his absence, but a magistrate warned that failure to appear again could result in serious consequences.
For those affected by sexual assault, support is available through the National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service at 1800 211 028 or 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).
As developments continue to unfold in this high-profile case, the legal and societal ramifications remain significant, prompting discussions on victim rights and the justice system’s handling of sexual assault cases. Stay tuned for further updates.
