The Federal Court heard that Seven paid Lehrmann’s rent for 12 months as part of a deal, but it was suggested that there may have been additional rent paid for by Network Seven in someone else’s name. Lehrmann had agreed to provide exclusive access to all relevant information and documents for an interview deal with Seven. There were questions raised regarding whether Lehrmann provided 2321 pages of text messages between Higgins and her ex-boyfriend to Seven, which were handed over to the Australian Federal Police during an investigation into Higgins’ claim of being sexually assaulted by Lehrmann in Parliament House.
Collins, representing Ten, argued that distributing the text messages would be an abuse of process and an outrageous contempt of court. Despite Lehrmann denying providing certain documents to Seven, allegations were raised that suggested otherwise. The evidence before the court indicated that the payments made towards Lehrmann’s rent totaled around $105,000 and a separate rental arrangement cost about $12,000. The defamation case revolves around the accusations made by Higgins against Lehrmann, who has maintained his innocence throughout.
Lehrmann’s credibility as a witness in the defamation case was called into question by Ten, based on evidence suggesting that he did not provide documents to Seven as claimed. It was indicated by the judge that parts of Lehrmann and Higgins’ evidence may not be accepted, potentially leading to adverse comments on their credibility. Auerbach, a former Seven producer, became involved in the legal saga after reports emerged that he had booked Thai masseuses for Lehrmann and another Seven employee, leading to threats of defamation proceedings.
Seven strongly rejected the claims made against them in the court hearing, stating that they did not condone or authorize any alleged payments to Lehrmann. Auerbach refuted claims made by Seven regarding disciplinary actions taken against him for misuse of a company credit card. The legal proceedings surrounding the defamation case and the involvement of various parties continue to unfold in court. Sign up for the Morning Edition newsletter to stay updated on the latest developments and insights on this case.
