Bruce Lehrmann's Defamation Trial Continues Amidst Controversial Rape Allegations

Witnesses provide key testimonies as Lehrmann seeks vindication and compensation in ongoing trial.

Brittany Higgins, a former media adviser, alleges that she was raped by Bruce Lehrmann, a former political staffer, in Parliament House in 2019. Lehrmann has consistently denied the allegations.
The criminal trial for the alleged rape was abandoned due to juror misconduct and a second trial did not proceed due to concerns for Higgins' mental health.
Lehrmann is currently suing Network Ten and Lisa Wilkinson for defamation over an interview with Higgins that did not name him but alleged she had been raped by a Liberal staffer.
During the defamation trial, witnesses have given evidence about the night of the alleged assault and the subsequent investigation. This includes testimony from a rape crisis counselor who stated that Higgins was torn between reporting the alleged rape and wanting to keep her job.
Lehrmann has received significant financial settlements from media outlets for defamation, including $295,000 from News Corp and $150,000 from the ABC.