Network Ten to pay Lisa Wilkinson $1.15 million in legal costs

Network Ten has agreed to pay journalist Lisa Wilkinson a total of $1.15 million to cover her legal costs incurred during Bruce Lehrmann's defamation case against her and the network. This settlement resolves a lengthy dispute, following Lehrmann's unsuccessful suit where he claimed defamation over an interview with Brittany Higgins regarding her allegations of rape at Parliament House. The Federal Court noted that while Network Ten had already paid Wilkinson over $558,000, the remaining balance of approximately $591,000 is due by March 19, 2025. Wilkinson had initially sought $1.8 million but reached this agreement to avoid further court proceedings. Lehrmann, who maintains his innocence, has filed an appeal against the earlier defamation ruling that found against him. The case continues to draw attention as it raises significant issues surrounding media reporting and legal responsibilities.