‘This judgement is a triumph for truth’: Network 10 reacts to Lehrmann decision
Network 10 has released a statement regarding Bruce Lerhmann’s unsuccessful defamation suit against the broadcaster, calling it “a triumph for truth”.
Lehrmann sued Channel Ten and Lisa Wilkinson over a 2021 interview with Brittany Higgins and a subsuquent Logies speech that he said identified him as an alleged rapist, a claim which “utterly destroyed him”.
On Monday afternoon, Justice Michael Lee dismissed the case, finding that on the balance of probability, Lehrmann raped Higgins.
“Having escaped the lion’s den, Mr Lehrmann made the mistake of coming back for his hat,” Lee said.
Network 10 has since released a statement applauding the judgement.
“At its core this case was first and foremost about truth and Justice Lee has found that Network 10 prevailed in proving that Brittany Higgins’ allegations of rape were true,” the statement reads.
“This judgment is a triumph for truth.
“Justice Lee’s judgement is vindication for the courageous Brittany Higgins who gave a voice to women across the nation.
“Network 10 is considering Justice Lee’s 324-page judgment. It is clear however that Australia’s defamation laws remain highly restrictive.
“When put to the test, it was always our obligation to inform the public of these important social and political matters notwithstanding the challenges presented by these laws and today’s judgment vindicates the telling of Brittany’s story.
“Network 10 remains firmly committed to honest, fair and independent journalism; to holding those in power to account; to giving people a voice who wouldn’t otherwise have one; and to always pursuing without fear or favour, journalism that is firmly in the public interest.”
Subscribe to the daily newsletter
Got a tip?
Nathan Jolly is the Deputy Editor of Mumbrella. He joined the team in July, 2023.
Linkedin
The judgement was far from a ringing endorsement of 10’s or Ms Wilkinson’s journalistic standards; the opposite in fact
User ID not verified.
Have your say