Attorney-General Christian Porter launches defamation action against ABC

Attorney-General Christian Porter has launched defamation action against the ABC and journalist Louise Milligan.

The proceedings relate to an article that reported a letter had been sent to Prime Minister Scott Morrison containing serious allegations against a serving Cabinet minister.

Mr Porter’s lawyers said the article made false allegations against him.

While the article did not name Mr Porter, his lawyers argue he was easily identifiable to many as the subject of the allegations.

His lawyers said the Attorney-General had been subject to a “trial by media”, which they said should now end with these proceedings.

They said Mr Porter would use the opportunity to give evidence under oath.

Mr Porter is currently on medical leave.

His office…