Defamation

One Tweet, $140,000 in Damages: Social Media Defamation and Online Accountability

Sydney defamation lawyer: A single tweet. $140,000 in damages. A clear message about online accountability.

In 2024, Independent NSW MP Alex Greenwich was awarded $140,000 in damages after Upper House MP Mark Latham posted a homophobic tweet following the NSW state election.

The Federal Court found the tweet conveyed an imputation to the effect that Greenwich had engaged in disgusting sexual activities. The damages award reflects both the harm caused and the serious nature of the defamatory content.

Sydney defamation lawyer: Social media defamation is surging

Sydney has become known globally as a hotspot for defamation litigation, and increasingly it is ordinary people, not just public figures, finding themselves in court. The barriers to publishing have never been lower, but the legal consequences remain as serious as ever.

What many social media users fail to realise is that the same defamation laws that apply to newspapers and television broadcasters apply equally to posts on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, and other platforms. A defamatory statement is a defamatory statement, regardless of the medium.

Read our defamation Case Studies.

Politicians and public accountability

This case raises important questions about the standards we expect from our elected representatives. Should politicians face automatic penalties for defamatory statements made while in office? Is $140,000 enough to compensate for public humiliation on this scale?

Protecting your reputation: Sydney defamation lawyer

If you have experienced online defamation, you may have legal options. Our defamation lawyers have extensive experience handling social media defamation cases and can advise on the best course of action to protect your reputation.

Contact O’Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors to discuss your situation.

Visit our website: obriensolicitors.com.au
Call us: To speak with a dedicated legal expert call (02) 9261 4281.