In a shocking development that has rocked Victoria’s judicial system, a Supreme Court justice who upheld a controversial suppression order in the high-profile rape case of Tom Silvagni has abruptly resigned after revelations emerged that he was a high-school classmate of former AFL star Stephen Silvagni, Tom’s father. The justice, whose identity has not been officially disclosed but is reportedly Justice Andrew Palmer based on court records, stepped down on December 19, 2025, citing “personal reasons.” He now faces serious allegations of mis-As the suppression order shielded Silvagni’s name for months, explosive questions have surfaced over whether Tom’s psychiatric records were manipulated to justify the gag order, protecting an elite AFL family. Victoria Police have launched a full investigation into potential misconduct, marking a rare probe into judicial impartiality.

The suppression order, granted in mid-2024 and upheld through appeals, prevented media from naming Silvagni until after his December 5 conviction on two counts of rape. Lawyers argued his mental health—risk of suicide—necessitated secrecy, but critics called it favoritism for the Silvagni dynasty. Palmer’s ruling in May 2025 overturned a lower court’s lift, citing “imminent psychiatric harm.” Post-conviction, County Court Judge Gregory Lyon sentenced Silvagni to six years on December 18, noting “no remorse.”

The classmate link—allegedly from Dulwich College days with Stephen Silvagni—has fueled outrage. “This erodes public trust,” said Legal Ethics Professor Jane Harrow. No charges yet, but the Judicial Commission reviews.

Silvagni’s victim welcomed the resignation: “Justice delayed is justice denied.” The scandal underscores privilege in courts.