3M to argue Australia's $1.4 billion 'forever chemicals' lawsuit legally flawed, court hears
MMM•3M plans to argue that Australia's lawsuit over PFAS contamination is legally flawed. The case seeks more than A$2 billion ($1.38 billion) for past and future costs at 28 military bases.
1. 3M challenges legal claims
3M plans to argue that Australia's public nuisance claim is not available under Australian law, a court heard at the first case management hearing. The government says 3M failed to warn it that firefighting foam containing PFAS could harm people and the environment, and seeks compensation for contamination around 28 military bases.
2. Defence due in December
3M also plans to argue that Australia's claim over alleged misleading statements about the foam's features and safety is time-barred. Its defence is expected on December 11, and the case will return to court in December. Australia says it has spent A$1.3 billion addressing contamination at the bases, including A$408 million in settlements with affected communities.
