Bruce Lehrmann launches restraining order bid against Daily Mail journalist after Tasmanian coverage

Former political staffer Bruce Lehrmann, who last month pleaded not guilty to a Huon Valley car theft, has applied for a restraining order against a journalist covering his time in Tasmania.

Bruce Lehrmann and solicitor Zali Burrows in Hobart. Picture: Elise Kaine

Former Liberal political staffer, Bruce Lehrmann, who last month pleaded not guilty in a Hobart court to one count of motor vehicle stealing, has launched a restraining order bid against a mainland journalist covering his time in Tasmania.

The Mercury understands that Mr Lehrmann, 30, recently filed the application with the Hobart Magistrates Court, which has listed the matter to be heard on Tuesday.

It is understood the restraining order submission relates to coverage Mr Lehrmann has been receiving in the online publication, Daily Mail Australia.

Mr Lehrmann has spent considerable time living in Tasmania since the conclusion of his unsuccessful defamation trial in Sydney’s Federal Court last year.

Magistrates Court documents reveal the car-stealing charge was brought by complainant Gail Denise Oates in relation to a silver Toyota Prado allegedly taken on November 20 last year at a Mountain River property.

Last month, both Mr Lehrmann and his lawyer, Zali Burrows, appeared by phone in the Hobart Magistrates Court, where the former Liberal Party staff member pleaded not guilty to the single count.

Mr Lehrmann was bailed by Magistrate Reg Marron to appear by phone for his next hearing on 19 September.

Mr Lehrmann is appealing the outcome of his Federal Court defamation case, which he brought against Network Ten and television journalist Lisa Wilkinson.

Originally published as Bruce Lehrmann launches restraining order bid against Daily Mail journalist after Tasmanian coverage