Network Seven paying Bruce Lehrmann’s rent for a year

“You went public, so to speak, to put your version of the story and vindicate yourself?” Ms Chrysanthou asked.

“That was a consideration, yes,” he replied.

Sue Chrysanthou, SC: “It was part of the agreement, wasn’t it.” Kate Geraghty

Ms Chrysanthou: “It was part of the agreement, wasn’t it, that you were paid for 12 months of accommodation by Channel Seven, yes?”

Mr Lehrmann: “That’s the only part, that’s what I get, yes.”

Ms Chrysanthou: “That occurred from June 2023, and it’s to be paid until June 2024.”

Mr Lehrmann: “Well, yes, for filming in those places.”

Seven has previously said it “made no payment to Bruce Lehrmann for the interview” but rather it “assisted with accommodation as part of the filming of the report”.

More than 10,000 people have been watching the trial, which is being live-streamed on YouTube.

Mr Lehrmann was charged and faced trial late last year over the rape allegations, but the case was discontinued after a juror brought external research to court. Prosecutors then dropped the charge against Mr Lehrmann over concerns for Ms Higgins’ mental health. He has always maintained his innocence.

The defamation trial has been described as a “de-facto rape trial”. Ten is relying on a truth defence, meaning it intends to demonstrate the allegations of rape are true or substantially true.

The hearing, which is due to continue until mid-December, continues.