Recent reforms to Australia's defamation laws have introduced significant changes aimed at balancing the protection of individual reputations with the need for free and responsible journalism. Key among these changes is the introduction of a "serious harm" threshold, requiring plaintiffs to demonstrate that the defamatory publication caused or is likely to cause serious harm to their reputation. hwlebsworth.com.au+9mondaq.com+9couriermail.com.au+9
Additionally, the new "public interest" defense allows journalists to argue that their publications were in the public interest, providing greater protection for investigative reporting. These reforms are expected to reduce frivolous lawsuits and encourage more robust journalism, although their practical impact will depend on how courts interpret and apply these new provisions.taylorfrancis.com
