Ben Roberts-Smith: the investigation that brought down a war hero

(This interview is from 2025). For eight years, journalists Nick McKenzie and Chris Masters waged an epic battle for the truth about soldier Ben Roberts-Smith's war crimes, culminating in the defamation trial of the century. Richard Fidler interviews Nick about unearthing Roberts-Smith's secrets, death threats and powerful forces intent on destroying his career detailed in his new book Crossing the Line.

Along with his colleague Chris Masters, Nick began an investigation which hinged on Australia’s most famous, and most decorated living soldier, Ben Roberts-Smith, who served in the Special Air Service Regiment (SAS) from 2003 - 2013.

His fight examined evidence of bullying, intimidation, war crimes and murder, and took him across Australia and to Afghanistan. He also witnessed attempts to silence brave SAS soldiers, who had witnessed their famous comrade commit unspeakable acts.

Earlier this year, Ben Roberts-Smith lost an appeal against a defamation judgement, which found he committed war crimes.

Further information:

Crossing the Line is published by Hachette.

This episode of Conversations was produced by Meggie Morris. Executive Producer is Nicola Harrison.

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