The statements below are Shine Lawyers’s account of this case. They reflect allegations or the firm’s position and have not been determined by a court unless a settlement or judgment is noted.
About This Case
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.
Source: Shine Lawyers
Who May Be Eligible
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.
Source: Shine Lawyers
How to Register
To express your interest on a confidential, no-cost, no-obligation basis, please click the button below and fill out the form.
Register NowSource: Shine Lawyers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PFAS contamination?
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. Source: https://www.epa.gov/pfas/our-current-understanding-human-health-and-environmental-risks-pfas
Where is PFAS most commonly found?
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
Source: Shine Lawyers
Disclaimer: This information is sourced from Shine Lawyers. It is provided for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify details with the original source before taking any action.
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