August 19th 2024.
Brittany Higgins, a former staffer of Liberal Senator Linda Reynolds, has decided not to testify in a defamation trial brought against her by her former boss. This comes after Reynolds sued Higgins for a series of social media posts that she believed contained false information and damaged her reputation. Higgins' lawyer, Rachael Young, informed the court that her client, who is currently pregnant and residing in France, will not be travelling to Perth for the trial.
According to Young, there were three reasons behind this decision. Firstly, Higgins is not obligated to provide oral evidence. Secondly, her lawyer believes that her testimony is not necessary for the success of the proceedings. And thirdly, due to Higgins' medical state, her condition will be detailed in confidential medical reports to be filed with the court.
During the court hearing, Jeremy Buxton, the chair of the WA Liberal Party selection committee, gave evidence that the controversy surrounding Higgins and her former boss could have affected Reynolds' chances of being re-elected. While Buxton acknowledged that Reynolds was a well-regarded senator, he also mentioned that she might have faced difficulties in securing the third position on the Liberal election ticket due to the situation in her office.
Buxton further explained that if Reynolds had not chosen to retire at the next election, there would have been reservations among delegates regarding her handling of the situation and her unethical conduct. He also pointed out that as a female senator, she may have been judged more harshly for not supporting a young female staff member, even if not all the allegations were believed. Buxton also mentioned that the third position on the ticket was problematic and the fourth position put a candidate at an unwinnable position unless there was a landslide victory.
Additionally, the court heard from Dr Antonio Di Dio, who was called to parliament when Reynolds broke down in February 2021 after Higgins' appearance on The Project. Di Dio mentioned that he was called because Reynolds was experiencing chest pain and was described as being very anxious and stressed at the time. He explained that he was concerned about the high level of anxiety and its impact on her work, causing her emotional distress. Reynolds was referred to a cardiologist, psychologist, and psychiatrist for further treatment.
It is worth noting that Lehrmann, the former colleague accused of raping Higgins, denies all allegations, and his criminal trial was hindered due to juror misconduct. For those who need support, the National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT is available.
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