In a significant development in the ongoing legal saga that has captivated Australia, David Sharaz, the husband of former political staffer Brittany Higgins, has revealed he is leaving the country. The move comes as he faces a formidable defamation lawsuit initiated by former Defence Minister Linda Reynolds.
Sharaz took to social media to announce his departure for France, framing it as a necessary step for his mental and financial wellbeing. He stated the relentless pressure and astronomical legal costs associated with defending against Senator Reynolds' claims have made it impossible for him to remain in Australia.
A Legal Battle Rooted in the Past
The defamation case stems from comments made by Sharaz on social media, which Senator Reynolds alleges have damaged her reputation. This litigation is a direct continuation of the fallout from Brittany Higgins' shocking revelation in 2021 that she was allegedly raped in Senator Reynolds' parliamentary office by a colleague, Bruce Lehrmann.
Mr. Lehrmann has consistently denied the allegation, and his criminal trial was aborted due to juror misconduct, with no retrial held due to concerns for Ms. Higgins' mental health.
"The Price of Speaking Out"
In his emotional online statement, Sharaz expressed his devastation at the situation. "The prospect of losing my home and the financial means to continue to defend myself and support Britt is a very real one," he wrote. He accused Senator Reynolds of using her considerable resources to pursue a case that is "emotionally draining and incredibly expensive."
His departure marks a new chapter in a story that has exposed deep fissures in Australia's political culture and sparked national debates about the treatment of women in parliament and the legal system's handling of sexual assault allegations.
What Comes Next?
Despite moving to France, Sharaz has vowed to continue fighting the defamation case from abroad. This international dimension adds further complexity to the legal proceedings. The case continues to be a focal point for discussions on accountability, power dynamics, and the long-lasting personal consequences of political scandals.
