Mr Porter launched proceedings against the national broadcaster over its reporting on allegations he raped a woman when they were teenagers in the 1980s, a claim he strenuously denies.
Mr Porter told Sky News he has received “lever arch folder after lever arch folder” containing messages of support from his electorate, including offers of donations to cover his legal bills.
“I went into this litigation, knowing it’s going to put a massive financial drain on my resources, and I’m completely committed to that,” he said, later telling reporters he would disclose any donations “if the need arises” but would prefer not to resort to crowdfunding.
The Federal Court is continuing to hear the case that Mr Porter’s barrister Sue Crysanthou, SC, should be barred from acting on his behalf due to an alleged conflict of interest.
Mr Porter said he “would very much like” to keep Ms Crysanthou on as his counsel, but it’s a matter for the courts to decide.
He also wouldn’t rule out quitting politics at the next election, after being demoted to the Industry and Science portfolio in a recent reshuffle, following the airing of the historic rape allegations made by a woman who took her own life last year.
The Member for the WA seat of Pearce said he remains “committed” to his electorate but wouldn’t answer whether he plans to run for the seat again.
This content first appear on 9news