Reading a prepared statement outside the Federal Court on Monday, broadcasting doyenne Lisa Wilkinson – very Meghan Markle stealth wealth in a cream slacksuit – was predictably self-assured.
Minutes earlier, Justice Michael Lee had dismissed Bruce Lehrmann’s defamation case against Wilkinson and Channel Ten over a 2021 story on The Project, in which Brittany Higgins claimed she was raped by a Liberal staffer.
Sue Chrysanthou, SC, hugs Lisa Wilkinson as they emerge from the Federal Court on Monday.Credit: Getty Images
“Today the federal court has found that I published a true story about a rape,” Lisa said.
“I sincerely hope this judgment gives strength to women around the country.”
Then she thanked her lawyer, family and the “generous members of the public who have approached me almost every single day to express – often through tears – their unwavering support”.
Lisa, I wish I could say I was one of those blubbering randoms offering the unwavering support. I admire your longevity and grit in the toughest of media worlds. But while I, for one, am hesitant to diss another woman, especially a fellow veteran hack, I need to quietly call BS on your victory speech.
First up, big yes, yes, yes to the rape finding. Of course women everywhere would be relieved and delighted one of us was believed about a rape, even in a civil case to a lower standard of proof. It’s a terrible statistic that only one in 10 reported cases of sexual assault in Australia ends in a conviction.
But the finding had nothing to do with anything you did or said. It came down to what Justice Lee found constituted consent.
And it was a lot to claim truth about a TV show that weaponised and monetised the agendas of two women – you and Brittany – who emerged from the blast zone with a Logie, a book deal and almost $2.5 million in compo between you, but that ruined the careers and mental health of others.
Lisa Wilkinson has claimed victory. Who is she kidding?
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19.04.2024
Reading a prepared statement outside the Federal Court on Monday, broadcasting doyenne Lisa Wilkinson – very Meghan Markle stealth wealth in a cream slacksuit – was predictably self-assured.
Minutes earlier, Justice Michael Lee had dismissed Bruce Lehrmann’s defamation case against Wilkinson and Channel Ten over a 2021 story on The Project, in which Brittany Higgins claimed she was raped by a Liberal staffer.
Sue Chrysanthou, SC, hugs Lisa Wilkinson as they........
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