Major PFAS class action could lead to multi-billion-dollar claim figure
Summary
A significant class action has been launched against chemical manufacturer 3M in Victoria's Supreme Court, involving hundreds of organisations and potentially resulting in compensation claims reaching billions of dollars. The case, filed in late 2024, alleges that 3M knew about the environmental and health risks associated with its PFAS products, including Light Water firefighting foam, and concealed this information. The plaintiffs, including the Qenos Group, are seeking orders for site remediation and damages for misleading conduct. 3M has stated it will defend the claims, noting it has phased out PFAS manufacturing. Legal experts predict that PFAS litigation will continue to grow in Australia, with personal injury claims likely to follow the pattern seen in the United States and Europe.
(Source:ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation))