Moira Deeming vs. John Pesutto: Defamation Hearing Commences in Federal Court

In Melbourne, the Federal Court has commenced hearings on the defamation case brought by former Liberal MP Moira Deeming against Victorian Opposition Leader John Pesutto. Ms. Deeming alleges that Mr. Pesutto defamed her by associating her with neo-Nazi gatecrashers at an anti-trans-rights rally she attended in March 2023. The case, which is anticipated to span three weeks, has ignited tensions within the Victorian Liberal Party.

Text messages presented to the court indicate that Mr. Pesutto considered expelling Ms. Deeming from the party immediately following the rally. The Let Women Speak rally, where Ms. Deeming appeared, was disrupted by neo-Nazis, a group with which she denies any association. In courtroom proceedings, her counsel, Sue Chrysanthou SC, stated that Ms. Deeming was targeted for her steadfast views on women’s safety, ultimately leading to Mr. Pesutto’s defamation.

The court was informed that the rally had descended into chaos, with several protesting groups converging on parliament’s steps. Ms. Chrysanthou emphasized to the court that the neo-Nazis were a separate entity from those originally at the rally. She argued that her client, who had previously been held in high regard for her advocacy, was defamed maliciously.

A highly publicized legal battle, both Ms. Deeming and Mr. Pesutto are represented by renowned defamation lawyers, Sue Chrysanthou SC and Matthew Collins KC. The trial is set to explore internal party communications and personal reputations, with numerous Liberal Party members expected to testify.

Mr. Pesutto, defending against the defamation claims, contends that his comments were based on honest opinion, aimed at protecting public interest, and are supported by contextual truth. In contrast, Ms. Deeming seeks aggravated damages, citing the substantial distress and damage to her reputation caused.

The proceedings have garnered significant attention, with debates on the political implications for the Victorian Liberal Party. As the trial progresses, the impact on Mr. Pesutto’s leadership and Ms. Deeming’s political career remains uncertain.