Bruce Lehrmann#Media appearances
{{Short description|Australian former political staffer}}
{{Use Australian English|date=April 2024}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2024}}
{{Infobox person
| name =
| image =
| alt =
| caption =
| birth_date = {{Birth year and age|1995|06}}
| birth_place = College Station, Texas, US
| nationality = Australian
| alma_mater = Australian National University
| occupation = Lobbyist, political staffer
| known_for = Rape at Parliament House (civil finding)
}}
Bruce Lehrmann (born June 1995) is an Australian former political staffer, who is primarily known for his involvement in the 2021 Australian Parliament House sexual misconduct allegations. He grew up in Toowoomba and moved to Canberra for study in 2013 when he started working as a staffer.
Lehrmann was first publicly alleged to have committed rape in February 2021. In August 2021, he was summoned to court to face the allegation. Lehrmann's criminal trial in October 2022 was abandoned after juror misconduct resulted in a mistrial. A retrial did not proceed due to concerns about the health and welfare of the complainant.
In 2023, Lehrmann sued a number of media outlets for defamation following their airing and reporting of allegations against him. In April 2024, in a trial against Network Ten and Lisa Wilkinson, Lehrmann was found in a civil trial to have raped a colleague in Parliament House. The finding was made by Justice Michael Lee at the Australian Federal Court in a defamation trial initiated by Lehrmann against Network Ten and other media operators.
Early life
Born in College Station, Texas, in June 1995,{{Cite web |last=Hardaker |first=David |date=2022-10-27 |title=Who is Bruce Lehrmann? |url=https://www.crikey.com.au/2022/10/27/bruce-lehrmann-who-is-he/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240415055330/https://www.crikey.com.au/2022/10/27/bruce-lehrmann-who-is-he/ |archive-date=15 April 2024 |access-date=2024-04-15 |work=Crikey |language=en-AU}} Lehrmann grew up in Toowoomba.{{cite news |last=Wockner |first=Cindy |date=26 October 2023 |title=Bruce Lehrmann named as man accused of rape in Toowoomba |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-10-26/bruce-lehrmann-toowoomba-court-rape-charges/102962680 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231026114855/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-10-26/bruce-lehrmann-toowoomba-court-rape-charges/102962680 |archive-date=26 October 2023 |access-date=15 April 2024 |work=ABC News |language=en-AU}} He moved to Canberra to study at the Australian National University where he began his political career in 2013.{{Cite web |last1=Maley |first1=Jacqueline |last2=Thompson |first2=Angus |date=21 October 2022 |title=Culture in 'Canberra bubble' in sharp focus during Lehrmann trial |url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/canberra-culture-in-sharp-focus-during-lehrmann-trial-20221018-p5bqmu.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240418045927/https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/canberra-culture-in-sharp-focus-during-lehrmann-trial-20221018-p5bqmu.html |archive-date=18 April 2024 |access-date=18 April 2024 |work=The Sydney Morning Herald |language=en-AU}}
Lehrmann commenced work with the office of the Attorney-General of Australia and worked for various ministries until he joined Linda Reynolds's office in 2018.
He has worked as a political staffer for the Liberal Party, and as a lobbyist for British American Tobacco.{{cite news |last1=Knaus |first1=Christopher |date=24 March 2023 |title=Bruce Lehrmann told employer 'false allegations' had not hurt his ability to lobby effectively, documents show |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/mar/24/bruce-lehrmann-told-employer-false-allegations-had-not-hurt-his-ability-to-lobby-effectively-documents-show |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231202111326/https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/mar/24/bruce-lehrmann-told-employer-false-allegations-had-not-hurt-his-ability-to-lobby-effectively-documents-show |archive-date=2 December 2023 |access-date=15 April 2024 |work=The Guardian |language=en-AU}}
Parliament House rape allegations
File:Canberra (AU), Parliament House -- 2019 -- 1746.jpg, where Lehrmann is alleged to have raped Brittany Higgins|alt=A image of the Australian Parliament House, situated in Canberra, Australian Capital Territory]]
On 15 February 2021, Liberal Party staffer Brittany Higgins alleged to two media outlets, news.com.au and The Project,{{Cite web |last=Osborne |first=Paul |date=18 February 2022 |title=Timeline of Higgins incident and response |url=https://7news.com.au/politics/timeline-of-higgins-incident-and-response-c-2190530 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230707162747/https://7news.com.au/politics/timeline-of-higgins-incident-and-response-c-2190530 |archive-date=7 July 2023 |access-date=7 July 2023 |work=Seven News |language=en-AU}} that she was raped in the early hours of 23 March 2019 in then-Defence Industry Minister Senator Linda Reynolds' office in the ministerial wing of Parliament House by a colleague, later named as Bruce Lehrmann, after security guards admitted the pair into the building.{{cite web |last=Stayner |first=Tom |date=2 March 2021 |title=How Australian politics has been shaken to the core in the wake of Brittany Higgins's rape allegation |url=https://www.sbs.com.au/news/how-australian-politics-has-been-shaken-to-the-core-in-the-wake-of-brittany-higgins-rape-allegation |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210303200257/https://www.sbs.com.au/news/how-australian-politics-has-been-shaken-to-the-core-in-the-wake-of-brittany-higgins-rape-allegation |archive-date=3 March 2021 |access-date=29 October 2022 |work=SBS News}}{{cite news |last1=Byrne |first1=Elizabeth |last2=Radford |first2=Antoinette |last3=Frost |first3=Harry |date=14 October 2022 |title=Parliamentary security found Brittany Higgins naked 'in foetal position' after alleged rape, court hears |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-10-14/parliamentary-witnesses-give-evidence-in-lehrmann-trial/101532580 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221017044638/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-10-14/parliamentary-witnesses-give-evidence-in-lehrmann-trial/101532580 |archive-date=17 October 2022 |access-date=17 October 2022 |work=ABC News |language=en-AU}} Higgins said she became heavily intoxicated at a work party and left with her colleague in a taxi, believing they would both be dropped at their respective homes; instead she said she was taken to Parliament House and raped while slipping in and out of consciousness,{{Cite web |last=Maiden |first=Samantha |date=15 February 2021 |title=Liberal Party staffer Brittany Higgins says she was raped at Parliament House |url=https://www.news.com.au/national/politics/parliament-house-rocked-by-brittany-higgins-alleged-rape/news-story/fb02a5e95767ac306c51894fe2d63635 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210302172748/https://www.news.com.au/national/politics/parliament-house-rocked-by-brittany-higgins-alleged-rape/news-story/fb02a5e95767ac306c51894fe2d63635 |archive-date=2 March 2021 |access-date=3 March 2021 |work=News.com.au}}{{cite news |last1=Khalil |first1=Shaimaa |last2=Atkinson |first2=Simon |date=5 October 2022 |title=Brittany Higgins felt 'trapped' during alleged rape in Australian parliament – court |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-63140276.amp |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221018080458/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-63140276.amp |archive-date=18 October 2022 |access-date=29 October 2022 |work=BBC News}} waking to find her skirt around her waist.{{Cite news |last=Baird |first=Julia |date=19 February 2022 |title=What the PM should tell colleagues about the Brittany Higgins case: 'It sickens me. If it doesn't sicken you, your time is up' |url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/what-the-pm-should-tell-colleagues-about-the-brittany-higgins-case-it-sickens-me-if-it-doesn-t-sicken-you-your-time-is-up-20210219-p5740c.html |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221021052005/https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/what-the-pm-should-tell-colleagues-about-the-brittany-higgins-case-it-sickens-me-if-it-doesn-t-sicken-you-your-time-is-up-20210219-p5740c.html |archive-date=21 October 2022 |access-date=17 October 2022 |work=The Sydney Morning Herald |language=en-AU}} In contrast, Lehrmann told police that he and Higgins returned to Parliament House because he needed to pick up his keys, and as Higgins indicated she also needed to return to the office he offered to share his Uber ride. Once they arrived in Reynolds' suite, Lehrmann said he "turned left towards his desk, while Ms Higgins turned right and went to a different part of the office". Lehrmann said that after working "on a briefing for Parliament's question time", he left the office without seeing Higgins again.{{cite news |last1=Byrne |first1=Elizabeth |last2=Radford |first2=Antoinette |last3=Frost |first3=Harry |date=14 October 2022 |title=Bruce Lehrmann told police he wanted to die after learning he was accused of raping Brittany Higgins |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-10-14/rape-trial-shown-bruce-lehrmann-police-interview/101530814 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221028050613/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-10-14/rape-trial-shown-bruce-lehrmann-police-interview/101530814 |archive-date=28 October 2022 |access-date=28 October 2022 |work=ABC News |language=en-AU}}{{cite news |last=Gould |first=Courtney |date=14 October 2022 |title=Bruce Lehrmann's 45 minutes inside of Parliament House |url=https://thewest.com.au/news/bruce-lehrmanns-45-minutes-inside-of-parliament-house-c-8544169 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221030051633/https://thewest.com.au/news/bruce-lehrmanns-45-minutes-inside-of-parliament-house-c-8544169 |archive-date=30 October 2022 |access-date=30 October 2022 |work=The West Australian |language=en-AU}} Higgins was later found by a security guard in the early hours of the morning in the minister's office, naked, inebriated and disoriented.
Three days later, on 26 March 2019, Lehrmann was told by Fiona Brown, Reynolds' chief of staff, to "collect his belongings from the office and leave" because of his late-night entry into the office at 1:48{{nbsp}}am on the previous Saturday, and an earlier unrelated incident of him mishandling a classified document,{{cite news |title=Second week of Bruce Lehrmann rape trial sees his police interview and parliamentary witnesses testify in ACT Supreme Court |first=Elizabeth |last=Byrne |date=2022-10-15 |work=ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-10-15/second-week-a-stream-of-witnesses-to-bruce-lehrmann-rape-trial/101538834 |access-date=2022-10-27 |archive-date=29 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221029174100/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-10-15/second-week-a-stream-of-witnesses-to-bruce-lehrmann-rape-trial/101538834 |url-status=live }} with Reynolds consequently terminating Lehrmann's employment formally on 5 April 2019.{{cite news |title='Ashamed': Bruce Lehrmann's apology letter to minister revealed |first=Samantha |last=Maiden |date=2022-10-15 |url=https://www.news.com.au/national/courts-law/ashamed-bruce-lehrmanns-apology-letter-to-minister-revealed/news-story/3306adc896024ab2a65515105ccbaef8 |access-date=2022-10-29 |archive-date=17 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221017040310/https://www.news.com.au/national/courts-law/ashamed-bruce-lehrmanns-apology-letter-to-minister-revealed/news-story/3306adc896024ab2a65515105ccbaef8 |url-status=live }} On 1 April 2019, Reynolds called Higgins to her office to discuss Higgins' late-night entry into the office, which Reynolds "believed to be a security breach [...] describing the decision of two staff to come into the office at 1:40{{nbsp}}am as 'highly unusual' and not appropriate".{{cite news |title=Brittany Higgins: Michaelia Cash grilled in Bruce Lehrmann rape trial |first=Ally |last=Foster |date=2022-10-17 |work=News.com.au |url=https://www.news.com.au/national/courts-law/brittany-higgins-bruce-lehrmann-rape-trial-enters-its-final-days/news-story/d582e42ad705057491677435bc238298 |access-date=2022-10-25 |archive-date=17 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221017034802/https://www.news.com.au/national/courts-law/brittany-higgins-bruce-lehrmann-rape-trial-enters-its-final-days/news-story/d582e42ad705057491677435bc238298 |url-status=live }} Higgins went to the police after the alleged rape, but dropped the complaint in April 2019, fearful the report would result in termination of her employment.{{cite news |last=Albeck-Ripka |first=Livia |date=2021-02-24 |title=She Made a 'Soul-Destroying' Rape Claim. Then 3 Others Came Forward |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2021/02/24/world/australia/australia-parliament-house-rape-claim.html |url-status=live |url-access=limited |access-date=2022-10-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210227075338/https://www.nytimes.com/2021/02/24/world/australia/australia-parliament-house-rape-claim.html |archive-date=2021-02-27}} Eventually Higgins transferred to work for Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business Minister Michaelia Cash for a year before resigning a month before going public with her allegations.
Higgins made her allegations public following a Four Corners report "Inside the Canberra Bubble" in November 2020, which had reported on sexism within the Liberal Party and the Parliament House workplace culture.{{cite journal |last1=Heurich |first1=Angelika |last2=Coghlan |first2=Jo |date=15 March 2021 |title=The Canberra Bubble: A Toxic Gender Culture |url=https://journal.media-culture.org.au/index.php/mcjournal/article/view/2749 |journal=M/C Journal |volume=24 |issue=1 |doi=10.5204/mcj.2749 |doi-access=free |access-date=17 April 2024 |archive-date=17 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240417162236/https://journal.media-culture.org.au/index.php/mcjournal/article/view/2749 |url-status=live }} She alleged political cover-up of the rape ahead of the 2019 Australian federal election, and sparked a nationwide movement of protests.{{cite news |title=A rape, a cover-up narrative and a political firestorm |url=https://www.afr.com/politics/federal/a-rape-a-cover-up-narrative-and-a-political-firestorm-20240416-p5fk4u |work=Australian Financial Review |date=16 April 2024 |language=en-AU |access-date=17 April 2024 |archive-date=17 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240417162237/https://www.afr.com/politics/federal/a-rape-a-cover-up-narrative-and-a-political-firestorm-20240416-p5fk4u |url-status=live }} Prime Minister Scott Morrison made a formal apology to her in February 2022.{{cite news |author1=Katina Curtis |author2=Angus Thompson |date=8 February 2022 |title='I am sorry. We are sorry': Morrison apologises to Higgins and other staffers |url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/federal-parliament-to-acknowledge-harm-caused-by-sexual-harassment-assault-and-bullying-20220208-p59unk.html |work=The Sydney Morning Herald |language=en-AU |access-date=17 April 2024 |archive-date=17 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240417185204/https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/federal-parliament-to-acknowledge-harm-caused-by-sexual-harassment-assault-and-bullying-20220208-p59unk.html |url-status=live }} In response to Higgins's allegations, the Australian Human Rights Commission conducted a review into the prevention and handling of bullying, sexual harassment and sexual assault at Commonwealth Parliamentary workplaces.{{cite web |title=Set the Standard: Report on the Independent Review into Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces |url=https://humanrights.gov.au/sites/default/files/document/publication/ahrc_set_the_standard_2021.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240403060252/https://humanrights.gov.au/sites/default/files/document/publication/ahrc_set_the_standard_2021.pdf |archive-date=2024-04-03 |publisher=Australian Human Rights Commission}} Morrison's loss of the 2022 election, with safe Liberal seats going to female Teal independents, was partially attributed to dissatisfaction with the Liberal government's handling of the rape.{{cite web |last1=Cameron |first1=Sarah |last2=McAllister |first2=Ian |last3=Jackman |first3=Simon |last4=Sheppard |first4=Jill |title=The 2022 Australian federal election |url=https://australianelectionstudy.org/wp-content/uploads/The-2022-Australian-Federal-Election-Results-from-the-Australian-Election-Study.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240318092803/https://australianelectionstudy.org/wp-content/uploads/The-2022-Australian-Federal-Election-Results-from-the-Australian-Election-Study.pdf |archive-date=18 March 2024 |access-date=18 April 2024 |publisher=Australian National University |pages=21}}{{cite news |last1=Maley |first1=Jacqueline |title=Hear me roar: how the female vote swung the election |url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/hear-me-roar-how-the-female-vote-swung-the-election-20220522-p5anjq.html |work=The Sydney Morning Herald |date=22 May 2022 |language=en-AU |access-date=18 April 2024 |archive-date=18 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240418125457/https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/hear-me-roar-how-the-female-vote-swung-the-election-20220522-p5anjq.html |url-status=live }}
Over the following weeks, three more women alleged they had been sexually harassed or assaulted by Lehrmann, between 2016 and 2020.{{cite news |title=Media alleged that Bruce Lehrmann assaulted other women: court |first=Angus |last=Thompson |date=2022-12-02 |work=Sydney Morning Herald |url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/media-alleged-that-bruce-lehrmann-assaulted-other-women-court-20221202-p5c39n.html |access-date=2022-12-02 |archive-date=2 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221202184551/https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/media-alleged-that-bruce-lehrmann-assaulted-other-women-court-20221202-p5c39n.html |url-status=live }} One woman alleged on 20 February 2021 that she was raped in 2020 by him after the pair had dinner and drinks.{{cite news |title=Scott Morrison 'very upset' after reports second Liberal staffer assaulted by man who allegedly raped Brittany Higgins |first=Elias |last=Visontay |date=2021-02-20 |work=The Guardian |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/feb/20/scott-morrison-upset-after-reports-second-woman-assaulted-by-man-who-allegedly-raped-brittany-higgins |access-date=2022-10-26 |archive-date=26 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221026045018/https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/feb/20/scott-morrison-upset-after-reports-second-woman-assaulted-by-man-who-allegedly-raped-brittany-higgins |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last=Mao |first=Frances |date=2021-03-02 |title=How rape allegations have rocked Australian politics |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-56178290 |access-date=2022-10-26 |archive-date=4 March 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210304032643/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-56178290 |url-status=live }} On 22 February 2021, a second woman alleged she was sexually assaulted by Lehrmann in 2016. A third woman also accused him of unwanted advances and stroking her thigh under the table at a Canberra bar in 2017. After the story went public, and despite Lehrmann not being named in publications,{{cite news |last=Bannister |first=Maeve |title=Documents show other Lehrmann allegations |url=https://www.examiner.com.au/story/8005770/documents-show-other-lehrmann-allegations/ |access-date=2022-12-03 |work=The Examiner |date=2022-12-02 |archive-date=3 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221203005102/https://www.examiner.com.au/story/8005770/documents-show-other-lehrmann-allegations/ |url-status=live }} he was stood aside from his job at a large corporation where he had worked from July 2020. He checked himself into a Sydney hospital and the next day he was in a private rehabilitation clinic.{{cite news |url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/not-a-nice-person-man-accused-of-parliament-rape-stood-down-from-current-job-20210222-p574sh.html |url-access=subscription |title='Not a nice person': Man accused of Parliament rape stood down from current job |first1=Katina |last1=Curtis |first2=Nick |last2=Bonyhady |first3=Alexandra |last3=Smith |date=23 February 2021 |work=The Sydney Morning Herald |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220305020003/https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/not-a-nice-person-man-accused-of-parliament-rape-stood-down-from-current-job-20210222-p574sh.html |archive-date=2022-03-05 |access-date=2022-10-25 }}
= ACT criminal trial =
On 4 February 2021, Higgins contacted the Australian Federal Police to reopen her complaint against Lehrmann.{{Cite news |last=Meade |first=Amanda |date=15 April 2024 |title=A rape allegation and a media storm: a timeline of how the Bruce Lehrmann defamation case unfolded |url=https://www.theguardian.com/media/2024/mar/20/bruce-lehrmann-timeline-defamation-trial-brittany-higgins-rape-allegation-network-ten-lisa-wilkinson-ntwnfb?utm_source=chatgpt.com |access-date=30 December 2024 |work=The Guardian |language=en-GB |issn=0261-3077}} Following an interview with police on 19 April 2021, Lehrmann was summoned on 6 August 2021 for the alleged rape of Higgins.{{Cite web |date=2021-08-06 |title=Man to be charged over alleged sexual assault of Brittany Higgins |url=https://www.9news.com.au/national/act-news-man-charged-over-alleged-sexual-assault-of-brittany-higgins/7f3fee3e-aa3b-4909-bff1-6d934315c13b |access-date=2024-12-30 |website=www.9news.com.au}} Lehrmann, appeared by telephone at the Magistrates Court of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) on 5 November 2021 and pleaded not guilty to raping Higgins. He was committed for trial in the Supreme Court of the Australian Capital Territory.{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/nov/05/man-committed-to-stand-trial-for-alleged-of-brittany-higgins-in-2019 |title=Man committed to stand trial for alleged rape of Brittany Higgins in 2019 |work=The Guardian |date=5 November 2021 |access-date=3 December 2021 |agency=Australian Associated Press |archive-date=3 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211203004423/https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/nov/05/man-committed-to-stand-trial-for-alleged-of-brittany-higgins-in-2019 |url-status=live }}
In April 2022 Lehrmann's defence team applied to have his trial halted indefinitely as an apology from then-prime minister Scott Morrison to Higgins "imputed the accused with guilt of the offence or at least implicitly assumed the truthfulness of the complaint", and could endanger Lehrmann's right to a fair trial.{{cite news |title=Australia: Parliament rape case abruptly ends in mistrial |date=2022-10-27 |work=Deutsche Welle |url=https://www.dw.com/en/australia-parliament-rape-case-abruptly-ends-in-mistrial/a-63569683 |access-date=2022-10-30 |archive-date=30 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221030034945/https://amp.dw.com/en/australia-parliament-rape-case-abruptly-ends-in-mistrial/a-63569683 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last=Byrne |first=Elizabeth |date=2022-10-29 |title=How the immense interest in Brittany Higgins changed the way the media reported Bruce Lehrmann's rape trial |work=ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-10-29/the-unprecedented-trial-of-bruce-lehrmann/101556810 |access-date=2022-10-30 |archive-date=30 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221030041730/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-10-29/the-unprecedented-trial-of-bruce-lehrmann/101556810 |url-status=live }} The judge dismissed the application, saying that a jury member being aware of pre-trial publicity "is not of itself problematic".{{cite news |title=Scott Morrison's apology to Brittany Higgins risked fair trial: lawyer |last=Thompson |first=Angus |date=2022-10-26 |url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/scott-morrison-s-apology-to-brittany-higgins-risked-fair-trial-lawyer-20220401-p5aa0i.html |url-status=live |url-access=subscription |work=The Sydney Morning Herald |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221028195540/https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/scott-morrison-s-apology-to-brittany-higgins-risked-fair-trial-lawyer-20220401-p5aa0i.html |archive-date=2022-10-28 |access-date=2022-10-26}} Higgins made a complaint against the Australian Federal Police for unlawfully giving Lehrmann's defence team protected evidence, including counselling notes and video recordings.{{cite news |last=Tingle |first=Laura |date=27 April 2022 |title=Brittany Higgins complains AFP unlawfully disclosed evidence in sexual assault case to defence team |language=en-AU |work=ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-04-27/brittany-higgins-complains-afp-unlawfully-disclosed-evidence/101019424 |access-date=29 April 2022 |archive-date=28 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220428080232/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-04-27/brittany-higgins-complains-afp-unlawfully-disclosed-evidence/101019424 |url-status=live }} The trial was further delayed in June 2022 following the judge warning that the line between allegation and a finding of guilt had been "obliterated" in an acceptance speech by Lisa Wilkinson at the Logie Awards of 2022 and in commentary following the speech.{{cite news |last=Gould |first=Courtney |date=21 June 2022 |title=Major decision in Brittany Higgins rape case handed down |work=News.com.au |url=https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/awards/logies/judge-in-brittany-higgins-rape-case-says-she-was-wrong-to-trust-media/news-story/504b73c1c1d32ac415fb2ec956fa4f95 |access-date=21 June 2022 |archive-date=21 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220621182311/https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/awards/logies/judge-in-brittany-higgins-rape-case-says-she-was-wrong-to-trust-media/news-story/504b73c1c1d32ac415fb2ec956fa4f95 |url-status=live }}
The trial of Lehrmann began on 4 October 2022.{{cite news |title=Judge gets straight to the point in trial of Bruce Lehrmann |last=Maley |first=Jacqueline |date=2022-10-04 |url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/judge-gets-straight-to-the-point-in-trial-of-bruce-lehrmann-20221004-p5bn6i.html |url-status=live |url-access=subscription |work=The Sydney Morning Herald |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221022221147/https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/judge-gets-straight-to-the-point-in-trial-of-bruce-lehrmann-20221004-p5bn6i.html |archive-date=2022-10-22 |access-date=2022-10-05 }} It concluded on 19 October, and the jury retired to consider its verdict.{{Cite web |last=Thompson |first=Angus |date=2022-10-19 |title=Judge in Lehrmann trial warns jury not to be swayed by popular opinion |url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/judge-in-lehrmann-trial-warns-jury-not-to-be-swayed-by-popular-opinion-20221019-p5br2a.html |url-access=subscription |access-date=2022-10-19 |work=The Sydney Morning Herald |language=en-AU |archive-date=19 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221019105506/https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/judge-in-lehrmann-trial-warns-jury-not-to-be-swayed-by-popular-opinion-20221019-p5br2a.html |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Lehrmann jury can't agree on rape verdict |first1=Kristin |last1=Shorten |first2=Remi |last2=Vaga |date=2022-10-26 |work=The Australian |url=https://www.theaustralian.com.au/the-oz/news/lehrmann-jury-cant-agree-on-rape-verdict/news-story/8a2698200ec0d47277a05dc001ad8fee |access-date=2022-10-26 |archive-date=26 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221026042946/https://www.theaustralian.com.au/the-oz/news/lehrmann-jury-cant-agree-on-rape-verdict/news-story/8a2698200ec0d47277a05dc001ad8fee |url-status=live }} After four days' deliberation, the jury could not reach a unanimous verdict and were issued with a "Black direction".{{Cite news |date=2022-10-25 |title=Jury in Bruce Lehrmann's trial sent back to deliberate after saying it was unable to reach verdict |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-10-25/jury-returns-to-deliberate-in-bruce-lehrmann-trial/101575192 |access-date=2024-04-18 |work=ABC News |language=en-AU |archive-date=18 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240418145806/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-10-25/jury-returns-to-deliberate-in-bruce-lehrmann-trial/101575192 |url-status=live }}{{cite AustLII|litigants=Director of Public Prosecutions v Lehrmann|ACTSC|296|2022|date=27 October 2022|courtname=auto|juris=|ref=}}
On 27 October, the trial was abandoned after it was discovered that a juror had conducted private research and taken their findings into the jury room.{{cite news |last1=Byrne |first1=Elizabeth |last2=Mannheim |first2=Markus |date=2022-10-27 |title=Jury discharged in trial of Bruce Lehrmann, who was accused of raping Brittany Higgins |work=ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-10-27/jury-discharged-in-trial-of-bruce-lehrmann-brittany-higgins/101583486 |access-date=2022-10-27 |archive-date=27 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221027034800/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-10-27/jury-discharged-in-trial-of-bruce-lehrmann-brittany-higgins/101583486 |url-status=live }} Higgins subsequently criticised the criminal justice system on live television, saying it "has long failed to deliver outcomes to victims of sexual assault". Lehrmann's lawyer said "We have brought [Higgins'] comments to the attention of the court and the Australian Federal Police ... as to whether the complainant's statements might amount to a contempt of court or offences against the ACT Criminal Code".
The matter was relisted for 20 February 2023,{{cite news |title=Lehrmann's barrister refers Higgins' public statement to court, police |last=Thompson |first=Angus |date=2022-10-26 |work=The Sydney Morning Herald |url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/lehrmann-trial-aborted-after-juror-misconduct-20221027-p5btei.html |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221027030610/https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/lehrmann-trial-aborted-after-juror-misconduct-20221027-p5btei.html |archive-date=2022-10-27 |access-date=2022-10-27}} although a senior barrister soon after said it remained to be seen if the case is retried, given the extent of comments by politicians and media personalities now making Lehrmann virtually untriable.{{cite interview |title=Leading KC Tom Percy believes Bruce Lehrmann can 'never be retried' |first=Tom |last=Percy |interviewer=Liam Bartlett |date=27 October 2022 |work=6PR Mornings |publisher=6PR |location=Perth |url=https://www.6pr.com.au/entire-jury-discharged-in-bruce-lehrmann-case/ |access-date=28 October 2022 |archive-date=27 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221027172856/https://www.6pr.com.au/entire-jury-discharged-in-bruce-lehrmann-case/ |url-status=live }} In December 2022 the case was dropped by Shane Drumgold, the Director of Public Prosecutions,{{cite news |title=The Lehrmann trial is over – but it will never really be over |first=Jacqueline |last=Maley |date=2022-12-02 |work=The Age |url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/the-lehrmann-trial-is-over-but-it-will-never-really-be-over-20221202-p5c32v.html |access-date=2022-12-03 |archive-date=2 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221202210800/https://amp.theage.com.au/politics/federal/the-lehrmann-trial-is-over-but-it-will-never-really-be-over-20221202-p5c32v.html |url-status=live }}{{cite news |author= |date=2022-12-02 |title=New bombshell in rape trial that shook the Liberal Government |work=A Current Affair, Nine |url=https://9now.nine.com.au/a-current-affair/charges-against-bruce-lehrmann-dropped-following-major-bombshell/ab9b2b54-2c65-47cf-aa3b-0f2a7ad498b6 |url-status=live |access-date=2022-12-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221203101848/https://amp.nine.com.au/article/ab9b2b54-2c65-47cf-aa3b-0f2a7ad498b6 |archive-date=2022-12-03}}{{cite news |title=Two clear lessons from the abandoned Bruce Lehrmann trial |first=Rick |last=Sarre |date=2022-12-02 |work=New Daily |url=https://thenewdaily.com.au/news/state/act/2022/12/02/two-lessons-bruce-lehrmann-trial/amp/ |access-date=2022-12-03 |archive-date=2 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221202205207/https://thenewdaily.com.au/news/state/act/2022/12/02/two-lessons-bruce-lehrmann-trial/amp/ |url-status=live }} stating it was "no longer in the public interest to pursue a prosecution" after receiving evidence "that the ongoing trauma associated with this prosecution presents a significant and unacceptable risk to the life of the complainant".{{Cite news |last1=Burnside |first1=Niki |last2=Byrne |first2=Elizabeth |date=2022-12-01 |title=Rape charge dropped against Bruce Lehrmann, who was accused of sexually assaulting Brittany Higgins |work=ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-12-02/bruce-lehrmann-rape-charge-to-be-dropped-brittany-higgins/101725242 |access-date=2022-12-02 |archive-date=2 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221202003726/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-12-02/bruce-lehrmann-rape-charge-to-be-dropped-brittany-higgins/101725242 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Bannister |first=Maeve |date=2022-12-02 |title=Prosecution drops Bruce Lehrmann rape case |url=https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/8004399/prosecution-drops-bruce-lehrmann-rape-case/ |access-date=2023-07-07 |work=The Canberra Times |language=en-AU |archive-date=7 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230707162319/https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/8004399/prosecution-drops-bruce-lehrmann-rape-case/ |url-status=live }} The accused "consistently maintained his innocence and the case against him was not proven", with the Director of Public Prosecutions declaring that "this brings the prosecution to an end." However, the manner in which the case transpired was criticised.{{cite news |title=Don't judge the legal system for sorry saga of the Lehrmann trial |first=Steve |last=Boland |date=2022-12-05 |work=WA Today |url=https://www.watoday.com.au/national/don-t-judge-the-legal-system-for-sorry-saga-of-the-lehrmann-trial-20221205-p5c3pf.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221205051945/https://www.watoday.com.au/national/don-t-judge-the-legal-system-for-sorry-saga-of-the-lehrmann-trial-20221205-p5c3pf.html |archive-date=2022-12-05 |access-date=2022-12-05}}
== ACT trial inquiry ==
Following the collapse of the criminal trial, Drumgold sent a letter to the ACT chief police officer calling for a public inquiry into the case to look at "both political and police conduct". The letter also alleged that police investigators were "clearly aligned with the successful defence of this matter".{{Cite web |last=Knaus |first=Christopher |date=2022-12-08 |title=Prosecutor alleges police 'aligned with defence' in Bruce Lehrmann case and claims 'inappropriate interference' |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/dec/08/bruce-lehrmann-trial-brittany-higgins-dpp-director-public-prosecution-shane-drumgold-act-police |access-date=2022-12-09 |work=The Guardian |language=en-AU |archive-date=18 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240418111001/https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/dec/08/bruce-lehrmann-trial-brittany-higgins-dpp-director-public-prosecution-shane-drumgold-act-police |url-status=live }}{{Cite news |last1=Massola |first1=James |last2=Schelle |first2=Caroline |date=8 December 2022 |title=Police union calls for inquiry into Lehrmann case after prosecutor alleges interference |url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/prosecutor-calls-for-public-inquiry-alleges-police-interference-in-lehrmann-trial-20221208-p5c4us.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221209005430/https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/prosecutor-calls-for-public-inquiry-alleges-police-interference-in-lehrmann-trial-20221208-p5c4us.html |archive-date=9 December 2022 |access-date=9 December 2022 |work=The Sydney Morning Herald |language=en-Au}}{{Cite news |last=Byrne |first=Elizabeth |date=2022-12-08 |title=Police union hits back at ACT's top prosecutor after he criticised officers' actions during Bruce Lehrmann trial |language=en-AU |work=ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-12-09/act-top-prosecutor-scathing-of-police-handling-lehrmann-trial/101753242 |access-date=2022-12-09 |archive-date=9 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221209010637/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-12-09/act-top-prosecutor-scathing-of-police-handling-lehrmann-trial/101753242 |url-status=live }} The Australian Federal Police Association published a statement calling the allegations a "smear" and unproven while also calling for an investigation into the case. The ACT government subsequently announced an independent inquiry into the case.{{Cite web |last=Karp |first=Paul |date=2022-12-20 |title=Independent inquiry to be held into handling of Brittany Higgins' allegations against Bruce Lehrmann |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/dec/21/independent-inquiry-to-be-held-into-handling-of-brittany-higgins-allegations-against-bruce-lehrmann |access-date=2022-12-20 |work=The Guardian |language=en-AU |archive-date=18 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240418111010/https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/dec/21/independent-inquiry-to-be-held-into-handling-of-brittany-higgins-allegations-against-bruce-lehrmann |url-status=live }}
The inquiry was chaired by Walter Sofronoff. The inquiry heard that police assessed the evidence as insufficient to prosecute,{{cite news |last=Knaus |first=Christopher |date=2022-12-03 |title='Greatly concerned': prosecutor warns of potentially 'unlawful' disclosures about Brittany Higgins |work=The Guardian |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/dec/03/greatly-concerned-prosecutor-warns-potentially-unlawful-disclosures-brittany-higgins-bruce-lehrmann |url-status=live |access-date=2022-12-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221203064842/https://amp.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/dec/03/greatly-concerned-prosecutor-warns-potentially-unlawful-disclosures-brittany-higgins-bruce-lehrmann |archive-date=2022-12-03}} and "expressed a number of concerns about the case".{{Cite news |last=Doherty |first=Ben |date=2023-05-22 |title=Police did not believe evidence was sufficient to take Bruce Lehrmann to trial, inquiry hears |language=en-AU |work=The Guardian |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/may/22/police-did-not-believe-evidence-was-sufficient-to-take-bruce-lehrmann-to-trial-inquiry-hears |access-date=2023-07-07 |issn=0261-3077 |archive-date=7 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230707163736/https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/may/22/police-did-not-believe-evidence-was-sufficient-to-take-bruce-lehrmann-to-trial-inquiry-hears |url-status=live }} The inquiry subsequently heard that ACT police had been using the wrong legal threshold for charging suspects,{{cite news |last1=Thompson |first1=Angus |title=Top officer worried police were seen to be conspiring with Lehrmann defence |url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/lehrmann-officer-says-she-was-wrong-about-threshold-for-charging-a-suspect-20230525-p5db4w.html |work=The Sydney Morning Herald |date=25 May 2023 |language=en-AU |access-date=18 April 2024 |archive-date=18 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240418011031/https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/lehrmann-officer-says-she-was-wrong-about-threshold-for-charging-a-suspect-20230525-p5db4w.html |url-status=live }} and that the ACT had the lowest rate of charging for sexual assault in Australia.{{cite news |last1=Doherty |first1=Ben |title=Bruce Lehrmann inquiry hears ACT least likely in nation to lay charges in sexual assault cases |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/may/24/bruce-lehrmann-inquiry-reveals-act-police-least-likely-in-nation-to-lay-charges-in-sexual-assault-cases |work=The Guardian |date=24 May 2023 |access-date=18 April 2024 |archive-date=18 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240418011030/https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/may/24/bruce-lehrmann-inquiry-reveals-act-police-least-likely-in-nation-to-lay-charges-in-sexual-assault-cases |url-status=live }} The senior investigating officer admitted that police made a mistake in providing Higgins' private counselling notes to Lehrmann's legal team.{{Cite news |last=Maiden |first=Samantha |date=May 22, 2023 |title=Why cops sent Brittany Higgins private counselling notes to defence |url=https://www.news.com.au/national/nsw-act/courts-law/why-cops-sent-brittany-higgins-private-counselling-notes-to-defence/news-story/9ecdd793e5c9d0b3da5fee5150871160 |work=News.com.au |access-date=18 April 2024 |archive-date=22 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230522040206/https://www.news.com.au/national/nsw-act/courts-law/why-cops-sent-brittany-higgins-private-counselling-notes-to-defence/news-story/9ecdd793e5c9d0b3da5fee5150871160 |url-status=live }}
The final report was leaked to News Corp journalist Janet Albrechtsen before being submitted to the ACT Chief Minister.{{cite news |last1=Knaus |first1=Christopher |last2=Bucci |first2=Nino |title=Head of inquiry into Lehrmann prosecution gave report to selected journalists before ACT chief minister |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/aug/04/head-of-inquiry-into-lehrmann-prosecution-gave-report-to-selected-journalists-before-act-chief-minister |work=The Guardian |date=4 August 2023 |access-date=18 April 2024 |archive-date=7 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240307141730/https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/aug/04/head-of-inquiry-into-lehrmann-prosecution-gave-report-to-selected-journalists-before-act-chief-minister |url-status=live }} It contained adverse findings against Drumgold, who resigned following its release to the media.{{cite news |last1=Butler |first1=Josh |title=Shane Drumgold resigns following premature release of Sofronoff inquiry findings |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/aug/06/shane-drumgold-resigns-following-premature-release-of-sofronoff-inquiry-findings |work=The Guardian |date=6 August 2023 |access-date=18 April 2024 |archive-date=18 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240418011031/https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/aug/06/shane-drumgold-resigns-following-premature-release-of-sofronoff-inquiry-findings |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Bruce Lehrmann inquiry report accuses man who prosecuted the case of 'knowingly lying' to chief justice |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-08-03/bruce-lehrmann-board-of-inquiry-report-slams-shane-drumgold/102681448 |work=ABC News |date=3 August 2023 |language=en-AU |access-date=18 April 2024 |archive-date=18 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240318220150/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-08-03/bruce-lehrmann-board-of-inquiry-report-slams-shane-drumgold/102681448 |url-status=live }} The review found that it was appropriate to prosecute the matter.{{cite news |last1=Karp |first1=Paul |title=Sofronoff report: ACT inquiry makes serious misconduct findings against former DPP Shane Drumgold |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/aug/07/walter-sofronoff-report-released-inquiry-misconduct-findings-shane-drumgold |work=The Guardian |date=7 August 2023 |access-date=18 April 2024 |archive-date=15 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240415112544/https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/aug/07/walter-sofronoff-report-released-inquiry-misconduct-findings-shane-drumgold |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Sofronoff |first=Walter |date=31 July 2023 |title=Board of Inquiry – Criminal Justice System |url=https://www.justice.act.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0003/2263980/ACT-Board-of-Inquiry-Criminal-Justice-System-Final-Report-31-July-2023.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224165410/https://www.justice.act.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0003/2263980/ACT-Board-of-Inquiry-Criminal-Justice-System-Final-Report-31-July-2023.pdf |archive-date=2024-02-24}} Recommendations issued included training police on handling of protected confidential material, disclosures to the defence, and the threshold for charging over sexual offences.{{Cite web |title=Key findings from the inquiry into DPP's handling of Bruce Lehrmann case |url=https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/key-findings-from-inquiry-into-dpp-handling-of-bruce-lehrmann-case/h8thiwc2s |access-date=2024-04-18 |work=SBS News |language=en-AU |archive-date=17 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240417195052/https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/key-findings-from-inquiry-into-dpp-handling-of-bruce-lehrmann-case/h8thiwc2s |url-status=live }}
Drumgold successfully challenged the adverse findings against him in the ACT Supreme Court. The Supreme Court found that contact between Sofronoff and Albrechtsen gave rise to an impression of bias.{{cite news |title=Contact between journalist and head of inquiry into Bruce Lehrmann's prosecution gave rise to an impression of bias, court rules |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-03-04/former-act-dpp-shane-drumgold-challenges-inquiry-findings/103542010 |work=ABC News |date=4 March 2024 |language=en-AU |access-date=18 April 2024 |archive-date=14 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240414001635/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-03-04/former-act-dpp-shane-drumgold-challenges-inquiry-findings/103542010 |url-status=live }} In March 2025, there was a finding by the ACT Integrity Commission that Sofronoff had engaged in "serious corrupt conduct" due to their extensive contact with Albrechtsen.{{Cite news |last=Meade |first=Amanda |date=21 March 2025 |title=Justice Lee finally exits Lehrmann proceedings as Wilkinson fails in last-ditch costs claim |url=https://www.theguardian.com/media/commentisfree/2025/mar/21/weekly-beast-bruce-lehrmann-defamation-trial-wilkinson-costs-justice-lee-ntwnfb |access-date=22 March 2025 |work=The Guardian |language=en |issn=0261-3077}}
Defamation trial
Lehrmann settled defamation proceedings against News Corp and the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) for $295,000 and $150,000 respectively without admission of liability. The news.com.au article was appended with an editor's note. The ABC removed footage of Brittany Higgins and Grace Tame's National Press Club address.{{cite news |last1=Whitbourn |first1=Michaela |title=News Corp, ABC paid total of $445,000 to settle Lehrmann defamation claims |url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/nsw/abc-paid-150-000-to-settle-lehrmann-defamation-claim-20231206-p5epns.html |work=The Age |date=6 December 2023 |language=en-AU |access-date=18 April 2024 |archive-date=18 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240418011031/https://www.theage.com.au/national/nsw/abc-paid-150-000-to-settle-lehrmann-defamation-claim-20231206-p5epns.html |url-status=live }}
In 2023, Lehrmann sued Lisa Wilkinson and Network Ten for defamation over the interview with Higgins that aired on The Project in 2021.{{cite news |author=Bell, Patrick |agency= |title=Bruce Lehrmann tells court he believes Brittany Higgins's fiance sent him threatening email titled 'Coming for you' |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-11-28/lehrmann-says-lisa-wilkinson-higgins-interview-prejudiced-trial/103157760 |work=ABC News |date=2023-11-28 |access-date=2023-11-28 |archive-date=28 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231128040927/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-11-28/lehrmann-says-lisa-wilkinson-higgins-interview-prejudiced-trial/103157760 |url-status=live }} Lehrmann told the court that Wilkinson destroyed his right to a "fair criminal trial".{{cite news |author= |agency= |title=Bruce Lehrmann doubles down on defamation claims |url=https://www.9news.com.au/videos/national/bruce-lehrmann-doubles-down-on-defamation-claims/clphvk05500020jnoq2bgn4lz |work=Nine News |date=2023-11-28 |access-date=2023-11-28 |archive-date=17 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240417120910/https://www.9news.com.au/videos/national/bruce-lehrmann-doubles-down-on-defamation-claims/clphvk05500020jnoq2bgn4lz |url-status=live }} Lehrmann said in court that he felt isolated and ostracised after Higgins' interview on The Project. He said "I became severely isolated", and admitted to a private hospital suffering emotional distress.{{cite news |author=Meade , Amanda |agency= |title=Bruce Lehrmann says he became 'severely isolated' after Brittany Higgins interview as he speaks in court for first time |url=https://www.theguardian.com/law/2023/nov/22/bruce-lehrmann-defamation-trial-brittany-higgins-interview-lisa-wilkinson-destroyed-life-court-told |work=The Guardian |date=2023-11-22 |access-date=2023-11-28 |archive-date=28 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231128062443/https://www.theguardian.com/law/2023/nov/22/bruce-lehrmann-defamation-trial-brittany-higgins-interview-lisa-wilkinson-destroyed-life-court-told |url-status=live }}
On 15 April 2024, Justice Michael Lee of the Federal Court ruled that, on the balance of probabilities, Lehrmann raped Brittany Higgins at Parliament House in 2019.{{Cite news |last1=Stonehouse |first1=Greta |last2=Bell |first2=Patrick |last3=Miller |first3=Daniel |last4=Courty |first4=Audrey |date=2024-04-14 |title=Bruce Lehrmann's defamation case against Network Ten fails, after judge finds 'substantial truth' to story — as it happened |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-04-15/bruce-lehrmann-lisa-wilkinson-defamation-federal-court-judgment/103702806 |access-date=2024-04-15 |work=ABC News |language=en-AU |archive-date=16 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240416015812/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-04-15/bruce-lehrmann-lisa-wilkinson-defamation-federal-court-judgment/103702806 |url-status=live }}{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ihum_NYbI-0 |title=Judge rules Bruce Lehrmann raped Brittany Higgins 'without caring whether she consented' {{!}} ABC News |type=Television production |language=en-AU |work=ABC News |access-date=2024-04-15 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240416193852/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ihum_NYbI-0&feature=youtu.be |archive-date=16 April 2024 |url-status=live |via=www.youtube.com}} The finding of fact resulted in the defence of substantial truth being made available to the respondents. During his judgment Lee said "Mr Lehrmann raped Ms Higgins", and shortly after "Having escaped the lion's den, Mr Lehrmann made the mistake of coming back for his hat."{{cite news |last1=Toomey |first1=Jade |date=15 Apr 2024 |title=Federal Court judge finds Bruce Lehrmann raped Brittany Higgins, defamation case fails |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-04-15/bruce-lehrmann-defamation-trial-judgment/103706656 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240415033744/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-04-15/bruce-lehrmann-defamation-trial-judgment/103706656 |archive-date=15 April 2024 |access-date=15 April 2024 |work=ABC News}}
Further defamation proceedings have been initiated or settled in at least ten other cases amongst parties related to the case.{{cite news |last1=Remeikis |first1=Amy |date=3 March 2024 |title=Linda Reynolds receives $90,000 defamation settlement over former ACT DPP's Lehrmann trial comments |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2024/mar/04/linda-reynolds-receives-90000-defamation-settlement-over-former-act-dpps-lehrmann-trial-comments |work=The Guardian |access-date=17 April 2024 |archive-date=15 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240415112505/https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2024/mar/04/linda-reynolds-receives-90000-defamation-settlement-over-former-act-dpps-lehrmann-trial-comments |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Whitbourn |first1=Michaela |date=6 December 2023 |title=News Corp, ABC paid total of $445,000 to settle Lehrmann defamation claims |url=https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/abc-paid-150-000-to-settle-lehrmann-defamation-claim-20231206-p5epns.html |work=The Sydney Morning Herald |language=en-AU |access-date=17 April 2024 |archive-date=17 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240417192025/https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/abc-paid-150-000-to-settle-lehrmann-defamation-claim-20231206-p5epns.html |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Maiden |first1=Samantha |title='Defamation': Ex-producer Taylor Auerbach announces legal threat against Bruce Lehrmann |url=https://www.news.com.au/national/courts-law/defamation-exproducer-taylor-auerbach-announces-legal-threat-against-bruce-lehrmann-channel-7/news-story/e56a6b20675bc6699fa45ec43fc5d64b |work=News.com.au |date=March 29, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328144753/https://www.news.com.au/national/courts-law/defamation-exproducer-taylor-auerbach-announces-legal-threat-against-bruce-lehrmann-channel-7/news-story/e56a6b20675bc6699fa45ec43fc5d64b |archive-date=2024-03-28}}{{cite news |title=Cops serve Drumgold with defamation concerns notice, court hears |url=https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/8460753/afp-officers-serve-shane-drumgold-with-defamation-concerns-notice/ |work=The Canberra Times |date=15 December 2023 |language=en-AU |access-date=18 April 2024 |archive-date=18 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240418011030/https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/8460753/afp-officers-serve-shane-drumgold-with-defamation-concerns-notice/ |url-status=live }} A total of twenty legal threats, claims, counterclaims or investigations have been reported in connection to the alleged rape.{{cite news |last1=Mizen |first1=Ronald |date=15 April 2024 |title=The omnishambles built on rape and 'short-on-facts' theory |url=https://www.afr.com/politics/federal/the-omnishambles-built-on-rape-and-short-on-facts-conspiracy-theory-20240401-p5fgh1 |work=Australian Financial Review |language=en-AU |access-date=18 April 2024 |archive-date=18 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240418033429/https://www.afr.com/politics/federal/the-omnishambles-built-on-rape-and-short-on-facts-conspiracy-theory-20240401-p5fgh1 |url-status=live }} In describing the legal proceedings and surrounding media reporting, Lee said "the underlying controversy has become a cause célèbre. Indeed, given its unexpected detours and the collateral damage it has occasioned, it might be more fitting to describe it as an omnishambles".{{Cite web |last=Connery |first=Tess |date=2024-04-15 |title=Bruce Lehrmann loses defamation case against 10 and Lisa Wilkinson |url=https://www.mediaweek.com.au/bruce-lehrmann-verdict/ |access-date=2024-04-18 |work=Mediaweek |language=en-AU |archive-date=18 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240418110857/https://www.mediaweek.com.au/bruce-lehrmann-verdict/ |url-status=live }}
=Costs=
Following the decision of Lee, Network Ten's submission for costs stated that Lehrmann should pay all Network Ten's legal costs. As part of their submission they stated that Lee had found Lehrmann would have known when he filed for defamation "that he had raped Ms Higgins". The submission, prepared by Matt Collins, argued it was an abuse of process because Lehrmann came to the Federal Court seeking substantial damages when he knew the allegations he complained about were true. "Mr Lehrmann brought this proceeding on a deliberately wicked and calculated basis."{{cite news |author=Amanda |first=Meade |date=23 April 2024 |title=Bruce Lehrmann should pay Ten's entire legal bill after 'deliberately wicked' decision to sue, network says |url=https://www.theguardian.com/law/2024/apr/23/bruce-lehrmann-defamation-case-channel-ten-legal-costs-brittany-higgins-the-project-spotlight-ntwnfb |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240423065713/https://www.theguardian.com/law/2024/apr/23/bruce-lehrmann-defamation-case-channel-ten-legal-costs-brittany-higgins-the-project-spotlight-ntwnfb |archive-date=23 April 2024 |access-date=23 April 2024 |work=The Guardian}}
On 10 May 2024, Lee order that Lehrmann pay for almost all of the expenses of Ten and Lisa Wilkinson on an indemnity basis.{{Cite news |last=Stonehouse |first=Greta |date=10 May 2024 |title=What happens if Bruce Lehrmann can't afford to pay the massive legal bill coming his way |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-05-11/bruce-lehrmann-costs-order-can-he-appeal/103830066 |access-date=11 May 2024 |work=ABC News |language=en-AU |archive-date=10 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240510235444/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-05-11/bruce-lehrmann-costs-order-can-he-appeal/103830066 |url-status=live }}{{Cite news |last=Meade |first=Amanda |date=2024-05-10 |title=Bruce Lehrmann ordered to pay almost all of Channel Ten's defamation case costs |url=https://www.theguardian.com/law/article/2024/may/10/bruce-lehrmann-defamation-trial-costs-hearing-network-ten-the-project-lisa-wilkinson-britanny-higgins-ntwnfb |access-date=2024-05-11 |work=The Guardian |language=en-AU |issn=0261-3077 |archive-date=11 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240511144000/https://www.theguardian.com/law/article/2024/may/10/bruce-lehrmann-defamation-trial-costs-hearing-network-ten-the-project-lisa-wilkinson-britanny-higgins-ntwnfb |url-status=live }} Lehrmann was condemned for bringing the civil proceedings on an "knowingly false premise" and for making his barrister "cross-examine the complainant of sexual assault in two legal proceedings". As part of Lee's orders he noted that "Mr Lehrmann had sexual intercourse with Ms Higgins and yet ran a primary case premised upon the fanciful and knowingly false premise that in the early hours of 23 March 2019 he was preoccupied with noting up details as to French submarine contracts".
= Appeal =
Following his lose in the defamation trial Lehrmann lodged an appeal.{{Cite news |last=Bell |first=Patrick |date=13 September 2024 |title=Bruce Lehrmann widens his appeal against defamation case ruling |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-09-13/act-bruce-lehrmann-amended-notice-of-appeal-failed-defamation/104350204 |access-date=14 October 2024 |work=ABC News |language=en-AU |archive-date=25 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240925004638/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-09-13/act-bruce-lehrmann-amended-notice-of-appeal-failed-defamation/104350204 |url-status=live }} At a hearing on 14 October 2024, Lehrmann requested a stay on the $2 million in costs order against him.{{Cite news |last=Byrne |first=Elizabeth |date=14 October 2024 |title=Bruce Lehrmann's lawyer says his only way to make money may be 'to go on OnlyFans' |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-10-14/bruce-lehrmann-bankruptcy-application-federal-court/104468444 |access-date=14 October 2024 |work=ABC News |language=en-AU |archive-date=21 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241221221627/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-10-14/bruce-lehrmann-bankruptcy-application-federal-court/104468444 |url-status=live }} Lawyers for Lisa Wilkinson and Network Ten requested $200,000 in security to cover its legal costs if Lehrmann loses the appeal. On 23 October 2024, the federal court decided that Lehrmann's appeal can proceed without him having to pay any security and a stay was put on collection of costs.{{Cite news |last1=Bell |first1=Patrick |last2=Roberts |first2=Georgia |last3=Toomey |first3=Jade |date=23 October 2024 |title=Bruce Lehrmann cleared to proceed with defamation case appeal |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-10-23/act-live-bruce-lehrmann-appeal-judgment/104503470 |access-date=5 December 2024 |work=ABC News |language=en-AU |archive-date=5 December 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241205104835/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-10-23/act-live-bruce-lehrmann-appeal-judgment/104503470 |url-status=live }}
In March 2025, Lehrmann's solicitor, Zali Burrows, filed written submissions in which they argued that Justice Lee should not have upheld Network Ten's and Wilkinson's truth defence.{{Cite web |last=Whitbourn |first=Michaela |date=5 March 2025 |title='Horror movie': Bruce Lehrmann's bid to overturn rape finding |url=https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/horror-movie-bruce-lehrmann-s-bid-to-overturn-rape-finding-20250304-p5lgx9.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250309015956/https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/horror-movie-bruce-lehrmann-s-bid-to-overturn-rape-finding-20250304-p5lgx9.html |archive-date=9 March 2025 |access-date=22 March 2025 |website=The Sydney Morning Herald |language=en-AU}} Burrows argued that character of the rape finding by Justice Lee differed from the allegations which were aired on The Project.
Subsequent legal matters
= Queensland rape trial =
On 26 October 2023, it was revealed that, in December 2022, Lehrmann was charged with two counts of rape in a matter unrelated to the allegations made by Brittany Higgins. The alleged events occurred in Toowoomba in October 2021, when he was awaiting trial for the alleged rape of Higgins. Lehrmann's identity had been the subject of a suppression order, which his lawyers had attempted to continue on the basis of a psychologist's report which claimed the publication of his identity would lead to "serious adverse consequences" to his mental health. Justice Peter Applegarth in ruling against the continuation of the suppression order made reference to media interviews that Lehrmann had engaged in, and how his participation in them was hard to reconcile with the psychologist's report.{{Cite news |date=2023-10-26 |title=Bruce Lehrmann named as man in Toowoomba |url=https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/bruce-lehrmann-named-as-toowoomba-rape-accused/news-story/fb5a049c4a24f607d790ae7b3da11ffd |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231026141516/https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/bruce-lehrmann-named-as-toowoomba-rape-accused/news-story/fb5a049c4a24f607d790ae7b3da11ffd |archive-date=26 October 2023 |access-date=2023-10-16 |work=The Australian |language=en-AU}}{{Cite news |date=2023-10-26 |title=Why we couldn't tell you about Bruce |url=https://www.news.com.au/national/queensland/courts-law/why-we-couldnt-tell-you-bruce-lehrmann-was-charged-with-rape-until-now/news-story/3d9631e4437efe76301eaa3ec337d9b1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231027012757/https://www.news.com.au/national/queensland/courts-law/why-we-couldnt-tell-you-bruce-lehrmann-was-charged-with-rape-until-now/news-story/3d9631e4437efe76301eaa3ec337d9b1 |archive-date=27 October 2023 |access-date=2023-10-16 |work=ABC News |language=en-AU}}
On 23 January 2025, Lehrmann's defence made an application to the court that his trial be a judge-only trial.{{Cite news |last=Hinchliffe |first=Joe |date=23 January 2025 |title=Bruce Lehrmann seeks judge-only trial for Toowoomba rape charges |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/jan/23/bruce-lehrmann-toowoomba-rape-charges-seeking-judge-only-trial-ntwnfb |access-date=24 February 2025 |work=The Guardian |language=en |issn=0261-3077}} In March 2025, Lehrmann changed the lawyer defending him in the rape trial from Rowan King to Zali Burrows, who is representing him in the defamation trial appeal.{{Cite news |last= |first= |date=10 March 2025 |title=Bruce Lehrmann switches lawyers before Toowoomba rape trial |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/mar/10/bruce-lehrmann-switches-lawyers-before-toowoomba-trial-ntwnfb |access-date=22 March 2025 |work=The Guardian |language=en |issn=0261-3077 |agency=Australian Associated Press}}
=Rental damages=
In June 2024, it was alleged in the New South Wales Civil and Administrative Tribunal that Lehrmann had caused $13,250 worth of damage to a rental property that Seven Network was paying for in order for Lehrmann to be interviewed exclusively by their Spotlight program.{{cite news |website=The Guardian |url=https://www.theguardian.com/media/article/2024/jun/12/bruce-lehrmanns-former-landlord-claims-he-caused-13250-damage-to-home-seven-network-paid-for |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250224053013/https://www.theguardian.com/media/article/2024/jun/12/bruce-lehrmanns-former-landlord-claims-he-caused-13250-damage-to-home-seven-network-paid-for |archive-date=24 February 2025 |access-date=24 February 2025 |date=12 June 2024 |agency=Australian Associated Press |title=Bruce Lehrmann's former landlord claims he caused $13,250 damage to home Seven Network paid for}} Lehrmann did not attend this hearing.
=Tasmanian car theft charge=
On 24 February 2025, Lehrmann appeared via telephone at the Hobart Magistrates Court on charges of stealing a four-wheel drive at Mountain River, Tasmania. He was granted bail, with the case expected to resume in June 2025.{{cite news |website=ABC News |title=Bruce Lehrmann faces Hobart court on allegation of stealing car in Huon Valley |first=Georgie |last=Burgess |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-02-24/bruce-lehrmann-in-hobart-court-car-theft-charge/104972982 |access-date=24 February 2025 |archive-date=24 February 2025 |date=24 February 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250224041950/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-02-24/bruce-lehrmann-in-hobart-court-car-theft-charge/104972982 |url-status=live}}
Media appearances
In June 2023, Lehrmann gave an interview on Seven News' Spotlight current affairs program.{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEhuhkWNn9E |title=Bruce Lehrmann Exclusive: Bombshell new interviews and evidence {{!}} Seven News Spotlight #documentary |type=Television production |language=en-AU |publisher=Seven News |access-date=2024-04-15 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204121648/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEhuhkWNn9E&ab_channel=7NEWSSpotlight |archive-date=4 December 2023 |url-status=live |via=www.youtube.com}} In October 2023, Seven Network's nomination for a Walkley Award was revoked after it was revealed that the network had paid for one year's rent as well as other expenses for Lehrmann, and the network had not accurately declared it.{{cite news |last1=Jaspan |first1=Calum |date=7 December 2023 |title=Seven's Lehrmann scoop disqualified from Walkley Awards |url=https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/seven-s-lehrmann-scoop-disqualified-from-walkley-awards-20231207-p5epvk.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240415062358/https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/seven-s-lehrmann-scoop-disqualified-from-walkley-awards-20231207-p5epvk.html |archive-date=15 April 2024 |access-date=15 April 2024 |work=The Sydney Morning Herald |language=en-AU}} The interview was the subject of much media attention during subsequent defamation proceedings as consequence of revelations during court proceedings.{{Cite news |last1=Ryan |first1=Peter |last2=Ainsworth |first2=Kate |date=2024-04-05 |title=Bruce Lehrmann's interview could bring down Spotlight and risks what remains of Network Seven's reputation |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-04-05/lehrmann-defamation-seven-network-spotlight-reputation-damage/103667290 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240415210351/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-04-05/lehrmann-defamation-seven-network-spotlight-reputation-damage/103667290 |archive-date=15 April 2024 |access-date=2024-04-15 |work=ABC News |language=en-AU}}{{Cite news |last1=Lyons |first1=Kate |last2=Meade |first2=Amanda |date=2024-04-05 |title=Bruce Lehrmann discussed $200,000 payment for controversial Spotlight interview, defamation trial told |url=https://www.theguardian.com/media/2024/apr/05/bruce-lehrmann-defamation-trial-latest-update-spotlight-payment-taylor-auerbach-ntwnfb |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240415083704/https://www.theguardian.com/media/2024/apr/05/bruce-lehrmann-defamation-trial-latest-update-spotlight-payment-taylor-auerbach-ntwnfb |archive-date=15 April 2024 |access-date=2024-04-15 |work=The Guardian |language=en-AU |issn=0261-3077}}
Lehrmann was initially due to speak at a Restoring the Presumption of Innocence conference organised by Bettina Arndt in June 2024. Arndt, described as one of Lehrmann's central supporters, has denied raising money for or asking anyone to pay money to Lehrmann.{{cite web |last1=McClymont |first1=Kate |title=Want to hear from Bruce Lehrmann about the justice system? That will be $100 a ticket, please |url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/nsw/want-to-hear-from-bruce-lehrmann-about-the-justice-system-that-will-be-100-a-ticket-please-20240407-p5fhz4.html |work=The Sydney Morning Herald |language=en-AU |date=7 April 2024 |access-date=15 April 2024 |archive-date=15 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240415033834/https://www.smh.com.au/politics/nsw/want-to-hear-from-bruce-lehrmann-about-the-justice-system-that-will-be-100-a-ticket-please-20240407-p5fhz4.html |url-status=live }} However, Lehrmann later withdrew as a speaker a day after the conclusion of his defamation trial, being "concerned that his participation may threaten the audience, jeopardise this important event, and distract from its main purpose".{{Cite news |date=16 April 2024 |title=Lehrmann withdraws from 'presumption of innocence' speaking role |url=https://www.thenewdaily.com.au/life/entertainment/people-entertainment/2024/04/16/bruce-lehrmann-presumption-innocence |access-date=16 April 2024 |work=The New Daily |archive-date=16 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240416065615/https://www.thenewdaily.com.au/life/entertainment/people-entertainment/2024/04/16/bruce-lehrmann-presumption-innocence |url-status=live }}