Melbourne rape trial reveals alleged victim sought financial gain 2026

The alleged rape victim in a high-profile Melbourne trial wanted to take the well-connected accused for all that he's worth, a court heard on Friday, as the case continues to grip Australia. The man, who cannot be named due to legal restrictions, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of rape and one count of sexual assault in Victoria's county court. Prosecutors allege the offenses occurred in March 2023 after a night of drinking, cocaine use, and watching football at the accused's friend's home.

Court hears evidence from former personal assistant

The trial heard testimony from another former personal assistant of the accused, who described a falling out with the alleged victim in November 2021. The witness told police that during a row at a Melbourne hotel, the alleged victim threw cutlery on the table and screamed, "how dare you do this to me" and "just one drink, just one drink with [him], why won't you give me just one drink". The pair have not spoken since, the witness stated in court.

Defense questions credibility of alleged victim

Under cross-examination by the man's barrister, Dermot Dann KC, the witness agreed that she believed the woman was "trying to force her way" into the accused's world, life, or business. The witness also denied claims made by Dann about her own conduct, including that she regularly drank with the accused socially while employed by him, that she had a video of him shouting in the workplace, and that she felt unsafe around him. These claims were part of the alleged victim's earlier evidence, given in closed court.

Comparison of key testimony in the trial

Key takeaways from the Melbourne rape trial

• The alleged victim's cousin told a witness she wanted to take the accused "for all that he's worth" and shares legal representation with Grace Tame.
• The accused, a well-connected Melbourne man, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.
• A former personal assistant testified about a 2021 hotel confrontation where the alleged victim screamed and threw cutlery.
• The witness denied claims she regularly drank with the accused or shared compromising video footage.
• The trial continues in Victoria's county court with further evidence expected.

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