In a landmark ruling with profound national implications, the Federal Court has found that Bruce Lehrmann raped Brittany Higgins in Parliament House in 2019. The judgment, delivered by Justice Michael Lee, came in a high-stakes defamation case brought by Lehrmann against Network Ten and journalist Lisa Wilkinson.
Justice Lee's Findings and the Core Facts
Justice Michael Lee handed down his verdict on Thursday, December 4, 2025, following an intense and closely watched trial. The judge dismissed Lehrmann's defamation claim, finding that the broadcast by Ten's The Project in February 2021 was substantially true. Crucially, Justice Lee made a definitive finding of fact on the balance of probabilities: Bruce Lehrmann raped Brittany Higgins in the early hours of March 23, 2019, in the parliamentary office of then-Defence Industry Minister Linda Reynolds.
The court heard detailed evidence about the night in question, where Higgins, then a 24-year-old media adviser, was heavily intoxicated after drinks with colleagues. Justice Lee accepted evidence that she was in no state to consent to any sexual activity. The judge rejected Lehrmann's account of events, describing aspects of his testimony as implausible and noting his conduct after the incident, which included a lack of timely concern for Higgins's welfare.
A Counterclaim Victory and Substantial Damages
In a significant twist, the case also involved a counterclaim by Brittany Higgins. Following the finding of rape, Justice Lee ruled in her favour on this counterclaim, awarding her substantial damages for the harm caused by Lehrmann's denial of the assault and his subsequent public attacks on her credibility.
Brittany Higgins was awarded a total of $2.4 million in damages. This sum is intended to compensate her for the immense personal and professional injury, including past and future economic loss, aggravated damages, and interest. The judgment represents a rare instance where a defamation proceeding has resulted in a decisive finding on the underlying allegation of sexual assault and a major damages award to the complainant.
Broader Implications and the Path Forward
The verdict brings a legal conclusion to a saga that has gripped Australia for years, triggering national protests about the treatment of women in politics and workplace safety. The case forced a reckoning within Parliament House and led to significant political fallout, including scrutiny of the former Coalition government's handling of the matter.
Justice Lee's judgment is notable for its direct and unambiguous language. He found that Lehrmann, in bringing the defamation case, had effectively put the truth of the rape allegation back into play, allowing the court to make a final determination. The judge's dismissal of the defamation suit and the awarding of damages to Higgins sends a powerful message about the use of defamation law by those accused of serious misconduct.
For Bruce Lehrmann, the outcome is a devastating legal defeat. Not only did he lose his defamation claim, but the court has now made a formal finding that he committed a serious criminal act. The ruling is likely to have lasting consequences for his reputation and future prospects. For Brittany Higgins, the verdict provides a form of legal vindication after a long and painful public battle, though the judge acknowledged the profound personal cost she has endured.
The case also has implications for media law, affirming the ability of journalists to report on serious allegations when pursuing matters of significant public interest. Network Ten and Lisa Wilkinson successfully defended their reporting, with the court upholding the truth of their broadcast.
