Last week the Chief Minister announced new defamation laws for the ACT.
The changes will leave most of the ACT law intact, with change concentrated in three main areas:
* the right of corporations to sue for defamation will be removed (small businesses and non-profit organisations will still be entitled to sue);
* a defendant will no longer be required to prove that material was published for the public benefit. Truth alone will be a complete defence; and
* the maximum amount of damages that may be awarded will be capped at $250,000. Damages are currently uncapped in the ACT.
ABC Online is now reporting the Greens’ reaction to the proposals which is very positive. The Greens’ media release is also up.
No word from the Liberals on this attack on the big end of town in defence of the little guys.
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