Judge confirms Wilkinson advocated for her opinions in Brittany Higgins case
Justice Lee stated that Lisa Wilkinson was eager to assist Brittany Higgins for personal reasons and ignored the fact that the story was fraught with danger.
It has been upheld by a Federal Court judge that former TV host Lisa Wilkinson and The Project producer Angus Llewellyn did not adequately investigate the story presented to them by Brittany Higgins. However, Channel 10’s defense of truth was upheld.
The defamation action against the TV network was brought by former political advisor Bruce Lehrmann.
Justice Michael Lee mentioned that Ms. Wilkinson used her skills in the witness box to advocate for her views regrettably. He also pointed out that if she had approached the story more as an experienced journalist rather than a supporter of Ms. Higgins, she would have realized the dangers involved.
He emphasized that Ms. Wilkinson’s eagerness to help Ms. Higgins was driven by personal reasons from start to finish.
Referring to a transcript of the initial meeting between Ms. Wilkinson and Ms. Higgins’ then-boyfriend, David Sharaz, the judge noted that the TV host was eager to tell the explosive political story and consulted with the relevant authorities.
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Justice Lee highlighted that Lisa Wilkinson tended to overlook information that didn’t align with Ms. Higgins’ narrative and was ready to believe in a political cover-up conspiracy after the alleged incident.
He mentioned that Ms. Wilkinson wholeheartedly believed Ms. Higgins’ account and questioned the credibility of Senator Reynolds. However, he pointed out that this approach was not in line with the conduct expected of an experienced journalist.
The judge also criticized Ms. Wilkinson for contradicting herself about the ownership of the story and the responsibility for research and fact-checking.
He further noted Ms. Wilkinson’s lack of judgment in her Logies speech despite seeking legal advice from Channel 10.
Regarding Fiona Brown, former chief of staff to Senator Linda Reynolds, the judge commended her for standing up against the Minister and another chief of staff to protect a young woman’s decision.
TV Network Did Not Allow Response Time
Justice Lee found Channel Ten’s attempts to communicate with Mr. Lehrmann inadequate. The request for comment was sent on a Friday before the program was scheduled to air on Monday.
He concluded that both Ms. Wilkinson and Mr. Llewellyn were determined to publish the story without taking adequate precautions to minimize legal risks.
Wilkinson Stands By Story
Following the court proceedings, Lisa Wilkinson reiterated the importance of the story about the rape incident in a Federal Minister’s office. She expressed hope that the judgment would empower women across the country.
