The firm’s practice group leader, Rory Walsh, said it is looking at whether the blaze could have been prevented, in light of a NSW Rural Fire Service finding that electrical infrastructure was the likely cause.

“We have seen time and time again how bushfires can tear communities apart, but learning that such devastation could have been avoided adds another level of suffering,” he said.

“The initial investigations are likely to come down to the adequacy of the power pole inspection process, which has been a central issue in many of our other bushfire cases as well as the Victorian Bushfire royal commission.”

Slaters will be closely examining the findings of any inquiry into the fire, the firm said, and is planning to hold community meetings with affected persons.

“We have seen incredible resilience coming out of Tathra this week, but the aftermath of natural disasters is usually very uncertain for those affected,” Mr Walsh said.

“Working out where people stand legally and financially is an important part of rebuilding communities, but it can be incredibly difficult with many left out of pocket.”

Elsewhere, William Roberts Lawyers have teamed up with IMF Bentham to investigate possible claims for compensation.

VIEW ALL

IMF has invited victims who believe they have suffered loss or damage as a result of the bushfires to provide their details confidentially through their website.

Following this, the firm will follow up to ascertain further information, at which point applicants can discover whether there are any potential legal claims to make.

The Tathra bushfires hit over 1,250 hectares of land last week, destroying at least 100 homes, cabins and caravans, with dozens more suffering damage.

Former federal police commissioner Mick Keelty has been appointed to lead an independent inquiry into the management of the bushfire response.

In addition, there will be an official coronial inquest conducted to formally determine the cause of the fire.