Antony Besanko

Justice Antony Besanko is a distinguished judge of the Federal Court of Australia, known for his significant rulings in high-profile cases, including the landmark defamation trial involving former soldier Ben Roberts-Smith. In 2023, Justice Besanko ruled that allegations against Roberts-Smith, including claims of war crimes, were substantially true, marking a crucial moment in Australian legal history as it was the first instance where a court assessed allegations of war crimes committed by Australian forces. His decisions are characterized by a careful consideration of legal principles and the implications of serious allegations, making him a prominent figure in Australian jurisprudence.