Ex-Girlfriend of NRLW Star Faces Multiple Assault Charges in Court
In a dramatic new development, Bree Brown, the former partner of rugby league player Maddie Studdon, has been charged with multiple counts of assault against the NRLW athlete. This follows closely on the heels of Studdon's own recent court appearance, where she avoided jail time after pleading guilty to domestic violence-related stalking offences against Brown.
Court Appearance and Charges
Brown appeared before Magistrate Scott Nash at Sydney's Downing Centre Local Court on Wednesday, where she entered not guilty pleas to all six charges brought against her. The charges include two counts of common assault, three counts of assault causing actual bodily harm, and one count of destroying or damaging property. Police initially refused bail for Brown, highlighting the seriousness of the allegations.
Magistrate Nash also issued an interim apprehended domestic violence order against Brown for Studdon's protection. This legal order explicitly prohibits Brown from contacting or approaching her former partner, adding another layer of complexity to their already troubled relationship.
Brown's Defense and Future Court Date
Speaking to News Corp outside the courtroom, Brown firmly declared her intention to contest all allegations. 'I will be fighting the charges when my time comes,' she stated. 'I'm pleading not guilty to all six charges. I will be fighting them all in court.' Brown is scheduled to return to court on October 15, where her case will proceed through the legal system.
Background: Studdon's Recent Sentencing
This latest court drama unfolds against the backdrop of Studdon's own legal troubles. Earlier this month, the NRLW player pleaded guilty to one count of stalk/intimidation with intent to cause physical harm and a second count of using a carriage service to menace, harass, or offend. As a result, she received a two-year intensive correction order and a $2200 fine.
Magistrate Megan Greenwood delivered a stern warning during Studdon's sentencing, telling the athlete she was fortunate to avoid jail. 'You do this again, that's where you're going,' Greenwood cautioned, describing Studdon's behavior as 'classic controlling behaviour.' She emphasized that 'no one should ever have to put up with being treated like this.'
The Stalking Incident Details
The court heard disturbing details about the stalking incident that led to Studdon's charges. After Brown blocked Studdon's number and social media profiles, telling her 'do not message me again,' Studdon allegedly contacted Brown nearly 30 times using a private phone number. The situation escalated when Studdon transferred $1 to Brown's bank account with a message containing explicit and accusatory language.
Studdon had initially indicated she would fight these charges but ultimately changed her plea to guilty through her lawyer. The incident occurred outside Brown's home on January 13, leading to Studdon's arrest.
Studdon's Rugby League Career
Maddie Studdon began her professional rugby league career in 2018 with the Sydney Roosters. She subsequently played for St George Illawarra, Parramatta Eels, and Cronulla Sharks during her time in the NRLW. The halfback has also represented both New South Wales and Australia at the representative level, making her a notable figure in women's rugby league.
Currently without a club, Studdon's career prospects have been affected by her legal issues. In 2025, the New Zealand Warriors considered signing her to address injury problems but ultimately decided against it. Warriors boss Ron Griffiths explained to RNZ that while they had discussed the possibility, the timing wasn't right, particularly since Studdon had previously played for another club.
This ongoing legal saga between two former partners continues to unfold in the courts, with both women now facing serious charges in a case that has drawn attention to domestic violence issues within professional sports circles.
