Former Liberal staff member Bruce Lehrmann has pleaded not guilty to charges of stealing a four-wheel drive vehicle, specifically a Toyota Prado, in the Mountain River area of southern Tasmania on November 20. This development occurred during a court appearance, in which his lawyer, Zali Burrows, expressed concerns regarding potential contempt of court related to a media interview given by the complainant, Gail Denise Oates. Burrows argued that Oates’s statements in the interview contradicted her formal police statement, prompting further legal considerations, including a possible application for a stay of proceedings.
Lehrmann, who has faced numerous legal issues in Australia, including a high-profile trial concerning allegations of raping then-colleague Brittany Higgins in 2019, has been predominantly in the spotlight lately due to the abandonment of his previous trial in 2022 amid juror misconduct allegations. Today’s court session took place via phone at Hobart Magistrates Court, where Burrows noted that Oates had ceased media communication since her interview and highlighted discrepancies in the redacted police statement regarding Lehrmann’s identity as the accused.
Magistrate Reg Marron remarked that entering a plea would allow Burrows to access more information relating to the case, with discussions about the redacted contents deferred for later. The court also indicated that the matter is set for a hearing that is expected to last approximately three days. Lehrmann’s bail remains granted as the next court date is scheduled for September 19.
Complicating the proceedings, Lehrmann faced a slight rebuke from the magistrate for initially missing the court’s phone call, leading to comments about ensuring his presence in subsequent calls. Additionally, Lehrmann has lodged an appeal against a Federal Court ruling that stated he likely committed rape against Higgins.
For those seeking support related to sexual assault and associated issues, the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service is available at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).