Victims of the catastrophic Cudlee Creek bushfire, which tore through South Australia in 2019, have launched a substantial class action lawsuit, demanding over $200 million in damages.

The blaze erupted on December 20, 2019, causing widespread destruction. It obliterated more than 80 homes, scorched over 20,000 hectares, and resulted in the tragic loss of one life.

The lawsuit claims that SA Power Networks exhibited negligence, pinpointing the fire’s cause to a pine tree that toppled onto a powerline.

“This marks the largest case we’ve undertaken in bushfire litigation across Australia since 1983,” stated Brendan Pendergast, the solicitor representing the plaintiffs.

This class action is set to be one of the most significant trials in South Australia’s legal history.

Spanning at least five weeks, the trial will feature testimony from several internationally acclaimed experts.

The plaintiffs are seeking more than $200 million in compensation. 

SA Power Networks has denied the allegations.