The Daily Aus Is Bruce Lehrmann's defamation fight over?
Dec 3, 2025
Bruce Lehrmann's defamation case against Network Ten takes center stage as his appeal gets dismissed by the Federal Court. The hosts delve into the court's finding that it's more likely than not that Lehrmann raped Brittany Higgins. They discuss the implications of the judgment, his hefty $2 million costs, and the distinct critical remarks from Justice Lee. Also on the agenda is Lehrmann's potential move to seek High Court permission and the legal troubles he continues to face in other matters. A gripping analysis of a complex legal battle!
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Why The Defamation Case Hinged On Truth
- Bruce Lehrmann sued over identifiability after a 2021 TV interview where Brittany Higgins alleged rape but did not name him.
- The Federal Court found the rape allegation true on the civil balance of probabilities in the 2024 defamation judgment.
Truth Defence Was Central
- Ten and Lisa Wilkinson defended the defamation claim by proving the interview's allegations were true.
- Justice Lee ruled Lehrmann could not be defamed because the truth defence succeeded.
Appeal Failed To Overturn Findings
- Lehrmann appealed on four grounds, claiming unfairness and errors in accepting the truth defence.
- A full bench of the Federal Court rejected the appeal and upheld the original findings.