FriendlyJordies: Jordan Shanks apologises to John Barilaro, pays court costs

YouTube personality Jordan ‘FriendlyJordies’ Shanks has apologised to former NSW deputy premier John Barilaro as part of an out-of-court settlement.

Mr Shanks agreed to pay $100,000 in court costs. An apology was read out loud to the Federal Court on Friday morning. 

‘Throughout 2020 and 2021, Mr Shanks posted many videos about John Barilaro, the former Deputy Premier of NSW,’ Dr Matt Collins QC said on behalf of Mr Shanks.

‘Freedom of expression for political communication is important, but Mr Shanks accepts that some of the videos that he posted were offensive to Mr Barilaro. 

‘Mr Shanks understands that Mr Barilaro has been hurt and apologises to him for that hurt.’

‘Throughout 2020 and 2021, Mr Shanks posted many videos about John Barilaro, the former Deputy Premier of NSW,’ Dr Matt Collins QC said on behalf of Mr Shanks

Mr Barilaro later released a statement saying he was pleased with the outcome.

‘I am pleased that my defamation claims against Jordan Shanks have settled,’ he said.

‘I am grateful for and accept Mr Shanks’ apology to me, and trust that we can now each move on with our lives.’ 

Mr Barilaro revealed that he would continue to pursue his case against Google.

‘Regrettably, my defamation claims against Google have not settled, and will be determined by the Federal Court in March next year.’ 

Mr Barilaro had sued Mr Shanks in May, alleging he was defamed by a series of videos claiming he committed perjury. 

More to come