Hockey does not regret defamation action

TREASURER JOE HOCKEY HAS NO REGRETS TAKING ACTION AGAINST FAIRFAX DESPITE BEING ORDERED TO PAY 85 PER CENT OF HIS LEGAL COSTS

"After nearly twenty years in public life I took this action to stand up to malicious people intent on vilifying Australians who choose to serve in public office to make their country a better place.

"I do not regret taking this action.

"The Federal Court has found that the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age defamed me.

"The Federal Court has found that Fairfax Media acted with malice through the actions of their Editor-in-Chief, Darren Goodsir.

"This is an unprecedented finding by a court against an Editor-in-Chief of a major Australian newspaper.

"The Federal Court dismissed Fairfax Media's defence and awarded me damages.

"The Federal Court dismissed Fairfax Media's claim for me to pay the majority of their legal fees.

"The Federal Court instead ordered Fairfax Media to pay part of my legal costs.

"Whilst the cost of this action has been considerable for me, my family and friends, it has been far greater for Fairfax Media.

"They are clearly not Independent. Always.

"As always, my job as Treasurer and Member for North Sydney is the focus of my attention."