Trkulja, Milorad v Trajkovska, Snezana

The case involved Milorad Trkulja suing Snezana Trajkovska for defamation due to spoken words that allegedly harmed his reputation. The matter was heard in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. Trkulja, who appeared unrepresented, claimed that Trajkovska defamed him by telling others that he was a former criminal. Trajkovska did not attend the proceedings or provide any defence.

The court needed to determine the extent of the damages caused by the defamatory words, the appropriate interest on any awarded damages, and the costs of the proceedings. Given Trajkovska's absence, the court had to assess the evidence presented by Trkulja and decide whether the allegations of defamation were substantiated and what, if any, compensation Trkulja deserved.

The court found that Trkulja had established the elements of defamation, as the words spoken by Trajkovska were defamatory and had been communicated to others. Considering the absence of a defence and the unrepresented status of Trkulja, the court proceeded to assess the damages based on the evidence provided. The court awarded Trkulja compensation for the harm to his reputation and determined the interest on the awarded damages. Additionally, the court ruled on the costs of the proceedings, awarding Trkulja the costs against Trajkovska.

The final orders included an award of damages for defamation, interest on the awarded amount, and costs in favour of Trkulja. Trajkovska was also ordered to pay the costs of the proceedings.