A defamation trial is underway in the Supreme Court of Western Australia, involving Australian Senator Linda Reynolds and her former staff member, Brittany Higgins.
Ms Higgins alleged she was sexually assaulted by a colleague in Parliament House in 2019 and claimed Senator Reynolds pressured her to keep quiet.
Senator Reynolds is suing Ms Higgins over social media posts she claims damaged her reputation. Ms Higgins maintains her posts were true and reflects her experiences.
The case follows a series of legal battles, inquiries, and public controversy surrounding the alleged assault and the conduct of parliamentarians.
The trial will hear from several high-profile witnesses, including former government ministers and potentially former Prime Minister Scott Morrison.
Ms Higgins is expected to give evidence and be cross-examined about the alleged assault. The case raises questions about the treatment of sexual assault allegations and the conduct of public figures.
