On 3 July 2023, Bromwich J, in the Federal Court of Australia, noted an apology from HarperCollins Publishers Australia Pty Limited to Dr John Gill for publishing the book “Fair Game: The Incredible Untold Story of Scientology in Australia” in making orders resolving long running defamation proceedings Dr Gill brought against the publishers of the book.

The Full Federal Court has unanimously upheld verdicts awarding damages of over $1.3 million to US-based Rod David and his film production company, Thunder Studios Inc, against Sydney-based Charif and Adam Kazal.

On 12 December 2024, Justice O’Callaghan gave judgment in the Federal Court of Australia for Moira Deeming MLC (Vic) finding Victorian Opposition leader John Pesutto had defamed her in five publications in March 2023, and concluded the appropriate award of damages for non-economic loss exclusive of interest was $300,000. Sue Chrysanthou SC and Barry Dean from 153 Phillip appeared for Mrs Deeming throughout the proceedings.  

On 3 December 2025, the Full Court of the Federal Court of Australia on appeal unanimously upheld judgment in favour of Lisa Wilkinson in defamation proceedings commenced against her for an interview she conducted with a young woman about an alleged rape in Parliament House in March 2019 that was broadcast on 15 February 2021 on The Project:  Lehrmann v Network Ten Pty Limited [2025] FCFCA 173. The Full Court rejected all grounds of appeal against the finding that Ms Wilkinson and her employer Network Ten’s publication was protected by the defence of justification under section 25 of the Defamation Act because it was substantially true that the young woman was raped by the applicant.  The Full Court also upheld Ms Wilkinson’s notice of contention that the uncontested facts found by the trial judge established the applicant knew the young woman did not consent to sexual intercourse. Sue Chrysanthou SC and Barry Dean from 153 Phillip appeared for Ms Wilkinson throughout the proceedings.

153 Phillip Barristers is proud to announce the Barristers recognised for their expertise in the Doyle's Guide White Collar Crime & Regulatory Investigations Barristers – Australia, 2026. Barry Dean – Preeminent, Australia 2026Christopher Parkin – Recommended, Australia 2026 Thank you to all our valued clients and colleagues for your continued trust and support.