If the ABC rely on the defense of truth, the defamation action...

If the ABC rely on the defense of truth, the defamation action will become a de-facto rape trial. if the ABC opt for other defenses it will be a strong indication the rape cannot be proved on the balance of probabilities, or at least not according to ABC silks, which is an even lower standard to criminal court, however substaintially higher than the pub test. So you can believe it, believe all victims sure, but in the eyes of the court most of the allegations are never tested, and defamation usually go the accused's way, such as the Rush case. Its no wonder the alleged victims of h8gh profile people go to the media, its must cheaper and has similar effects to jail anyway.