## Linda Reynolds Responds to Court's Decision in Lehrmann Case
Senator Linda Reynolds has expressed her relief and satisfaction following the Federal Court's judgement in the defamation case brought by Bruce Lehrmann against Network 10 and Lisa Wilkinson. The court found that Lehrmann had raped his colleague, Brittany Higgins, in Senator Reynolds' office at Parliament House in 2019.
Justice Michael Lee dismissed allegations of a cover-up by members of the then-government, criticizing Ms. Higgins and her partner, David Sharaz, for constructing a narrative that accused others, including federal ministers, of obstructing justice. He also criticized Network 10 for emphasizing the "cover-up" narrative despite inconsistencies and speculation.
Senator Reynolds stated that the cover-up allegation was demonstrably false and that she had endured intense public scrutiny, vilification, and damage to her reputation for three years. She expressed her gratitude that the court had finally set the record straight regarding her conduct and the false narrative that had dominated headlines and ruined lives and careers.
Liberal leader Peter Dutton echoed Senator Reynolds' sentiments, stating that she had been vindicated after having her reputation besmirched.
The ruling also raised questions about a $2.4 million compensation payment made to Ms. Higgins by the Commonwealth. Ms. Higgins alleged that Senator Reynolds and Senator Michaelia Cash had contravened the Sex Discrimination Act, a claim that was settled by the federal government in December 2022 without any admission of liability. Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus stated that the decision was made at arm's length to ministers and in accordance with legal principles and practices.
Senator Reynolds has launched separate defamation action against Ms. Higgins and her partner over social media posts that she argues damaged her reputation. She remains committed to fully vindicating her reputation in the ongoing legal action.