Shine Lawyers is investigating a potential class action on behalf of Australians who have experienced health complications following exposure to the toxic chemical substances known as ‘PFAS’.
What is the PFAS Health Class Action Investigation about?
Shine has previously settled PFAS Contamination Class Actions on behalf of landowners affected by toxic chemicals known as ‘PFAS’. These ‘forever chemicals’ were released into surrounding communities through firefighting foam used on Australian Defence Force (ADF) bases from the 1970s to at least the mid-2000s.
During this period, the ADF regularly conducted firefighting drills using PFAS-containing foam. It is alleged that the foam escaped from the bases and contaminated the land and water in the surrounding communities, potentially impacting nearby residents.
Shine is investigating whether exposure to PFAS chemicals has caused adverse health effects for Australians.
Can I express my interest in the PFAS Health Class Action Investigation?
As part of our ongoing investigation, we seek expressions of interest from individuals who have:
Been exposed to PFAS from:
Working in occupations such as firefighting or chemicals manufacturing and processing;
Eating certain foods that may contain PFAS, including fish;
Swallowing contaminated soil or dust; or
Breathing air containing PFAS.
AND
Suffered health complications as a result of that exposure. Health complications, for example, include:
Testicular cancer;
Kidney cancer;
Ulcerative colitis;
Liver damage;
Thyroid dysfunction and disease;
Developmental delays during childhood;
Fertility and pregnancy-related conditions.
How can I express my interest in the PFAS Health Class Action Investigation
To express your interest on a confidential, no-cost, no-obligation basis, please click the button below and fill out the form.
Per- and poly-fluoroalkyls, known as PFAS, are a class of harmful chemicals commonly found in products that reduce heat, stains, grease and water. They are common in many household products, such as carpets and non-stick cookware. They are commonly referred to as forever chemicals. PFAS are concerning because they do not naturally degrade and accumulate in the bodies of humans and animals after being ingested. A small amount of daily exposure can lead to high concentrations over time.
PFAS soil and groundwater contamination can lead to high levels of the chemical in drinking water, agricultural land, animals and residents.
The full effect on human health is not known.
What are the health effects of PFAS exposure?
Current peer-reviewed scientific studies have shown that exposure to certain levels of PFAS may lead to:
Reproductive effects such as decreased fertility or increased high blood pressure in pregnant women.
Developmental effects or delays in children, including low birth weight, accelerated puberty, bone variations, or behavioural changes.
Increased risk of some cancers, including prostate, kidney, and testicular cancers.
Reduced ability of the body’s immune system to fight infections, including reduced vaccine response.
Interference with the body’s natural hormones.
Increased cholesterol levels and/or risk of obesity.
The ADF bases where AFFF was known to be used from the 1970s until at least the mid-2000s include:
Jervis Bay, NSW
Wagga Wagga, NSW
Bullsbrook, WA
Katherine, WA
Jandakot, WA
Darwin, NT
Edinburgh, SA
Richmond, VIC
Wodonga, VIC
Townsville, QLD
Oakey, QLD
Meet the PFAS Health Class Action Investigation team
Shine Lawyers’ PFAS Health Class Action Investigation team includes some of the firm’s most experienced litigators, solicitors and support staff. You can learn more about the team running this class action by clicking on their profile below.
Our team includes the country’s most experienced class actions experts and litigators with the skill, industry insight and dedication to deliver the best possible outcomes for deserving Australians.
70+
dedicated class actions team members
We are proudly one of the largest class actions teams in the country. Our senior practitioners are supported by a dedicated team devoted to the complex field of class actions.
By registering with us, you are signing up to receive updates on our investigation into a potential class action regarding PFAS. Registering with us does not establish a solicitor client legal relationship with Shine Lawyers. No court proceedings have been filed and we may ultimately after investigations have concluded decide not to proceed with the case. As we have not entered into a solicitor client retainer with you at this time any rights you may have are not presently protected. Statutory time limits may also apply to your claim. If you have any concerns about your potential claim, please seek independent legal advice immediately.
Shine Lawyers acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, waterways and community. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past, present and emerging.