Bruce Lehrmann, a former Liberal staff member previously found by a Federal Court to have raped his ex-colleague Brittany Higgins, now faces allegations of car theft. During a phone appearance at the Hobart Magistrates Court, the 29-year-old’s case was postponed without a plea entered.
Lehrmann is accused of stealing a Toyota Prado from Mountain River, a rural area located south-west of Hobart, on November 20. His lawyer, Zali Burrows, also participated in the telephone hearing and requested an adjournment to discuss the charges further. Despite initial difficulties in contacting him, the court has scheduled his next appearance for June 19.
Court documents reveal that the charge for stealing the vehicle was filed against Lehrmann by Gail Denise Oates. His previous trial related to the alleged rape of Higgins, which occurred in 2019 at Parliament House in Canberra, was dismissed in October 2022 due to juror misconduct. A retrial was not held, primarily because of concerns regarding Higgins’ mental wellbeing.
Lehrmann has consistently proclaimed his innocence and initiated defamation lawsuits against several media outlets. Ultimately, a civil court found in favour of Higgins, stating that Lehrmann had indeed raped her, a decision he is currently appealing.
If you or someone you know is in need of support, assistance is available through the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service via 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).