Australia Sues 3M for Over A$2 Billion Over PFAS Firefighting Foam Contamination

The Australian government has launched a landmark legal action against U.S.-based chemical giant 3M, seeking more than A$2 billion ($1.43 billion) in damages over widespread PFAS contamination linked to firefighting foam used at military sites across the country. The lawsuit marks the largest environmental compensation claim ever pursued by Australia and highlights growing global concerns surrounding “forever chemicals.”

Attorney-General Michelle Rowland announced on Thursday that the Commonwealth is pursuing compensation for the significant environmental, economic, and public health costs associated with the historical use of PFAS-containing firefighting foam at 28 Australian defence bases. According to the government, the foam products supplied by 3M contained toxic chemicals that have caused long-term contamination of soil and water systems.

PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals commonly used in products designed to resist heat, grease, stains, and water. Often referred to as “forever chemicals,” PFAS do not naturally break down in the environment and can accumulate in ecosystems and the human body over time. Scientific studies have linked PFAS exposure to serious health issues, including liver damage, lower birth weight, and certain cancers.

Australian officials allege that 3M misrepresented the safety of its firefighting foam products, assuring authorities that the substances were biodegradable, non-toxic, and safe for disposal. However, the government claims the company failed to disclose internal research showing significant environmental risks associated with PFAS use.

3M responded by stating it would strongly defend itself in court. The company noted that it stopped selling the PFAS-containing firefighting foams in Australia nearly 20 years ago and argued that Australia’s Department of Defence continued using the products long after sales ended.

Assistant Defence Minister Peter Khalil revealed that the government has already spent around A$1.3 billion addressing the contamination crisis. This includes A$408 million paid in legal settlements to communities impacted by PFAS pollution. Authorities have also removed or treated more than 200,000 metric tons of contaminated soil and processed over 13 billion litres of polluted water.

The lawsuit adds to the mounting legal challenges facing 3M globally over PFAS contamination. In 2023, the company agreed to a $10.3 billion settlement with U.S. public water systems to resolve claims related to water pollution caused by the chemicals. The Australian case could further intensify scrutiny on manufacturers of PFAS products and increase pressure for stricter environmental regulations worldwide.