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While encouraged by recent settlements reached in the United States, the law firm behind the Australian Johnson & Johnson talc class action said it was “important to manage expectations”.
Pharmaceutical company Johnson & Johnson has agreed to pay US$5.5 billion ($5.5 billion) to resolve about 76,000 United States lawsuits that alleged its baby powder and talc products caused ovarian cancer, bringing an end to a decades-long court battle.
In a statement shortly after the settlement was reached, Australian firm Shine Lawyers said it was encouraged, but expectations must be managed “regarding potential compensation outcomes in Australia”.
“While developments in the United States are positive and may provide useful indicators, any compensation outcomes will depend on the specific circumstances of the Australian proceedings.
“Shine Lawyers will continue to progress the matter and provide updates as the litigation advances. We encourage anyone who believes they have been impacted to register on our website,” it said.
Shine Lawyers’ class action, commenced in the Supreme Court of Victoria, has been brought on behalf of Australian women who developed ovarian and other female reproductive system cancers following use of Johnson & Johnson’s talcum powder products.
The claim includes secondary claimants, including executors, administrators, beneficiaries or trustees of the estate of a person affected who died before 1 December 2025.
The class action alleges the talcum powder products were defective, unfit for purpose, and not of merchantable quality.
The cancer includes cancers of the female reproductive system (such as ovarian cancer and fallopian tube cancer), cancers of epithelial tissue (commonly called carcinomas), or cancer of mesothelial tissue and/or linings of the body (including mesothelioma).
The products include Johnson’s Baby Powder, Shower to Shower, Johnson’s Kids’ Powder, Teal Luxury Talc, Vemo Deodorant, and any other powder product branded, marketed, distributed, or supplied under the Johnson & Johnson name between 1971 and 2023.
The matter is scheduled for its first case management conference on 26 August.
