Northern Rivers Class Action
GMP Law is investigating a potential class action against those responsible for the M1 Pacific Highway construction. We are exploring whether the construction contributed to the extraordinary flood damage suffered by the Northern Rivers community (between Grafton and Ballina) in February-March 2022.
The investigation aims to uncover the truth about the motorway’s role in the flooding and, if applicable, seek significant damages for both past and future anticipated financial losses, including damage to property, negative impacts on insurance premium rates, and depreciation in property values. If evidence supports this, we aim to secure compensation for all affected individuals.
Current status
Our class action team is assessing the viability of a class action lawsuit against the State and Federal Government. They are collecting data, testimonies, and expert opinions to build a potential case.
Key developments
In September 2022, Transport NSW released a 330-page report indicating that they believe the new M1 Pacific Motorway had minimal negative impact on flood victims. However, this significantly conflicts with statements and evidence put forward by the local community.
Key points:
- Thousands of community members have expressed the view that the M1 Motorway acted as a levee bank.
- There are allegations that water was captured and channelled along parts of the M1 Motorway, stretching over 60km long.
- It is alleged that the roadway was constructed in a way that aggravated pre-existing flood levels.
About the class action
This potential class action would address serious allegations regarding the construction of the M1 Pacific Highway and its impact on flooding in the Northern Rivers region. The investigation focuses on whether the motorway’s construction exacerbated flood damage to homes and businesses.
Key aspects of the potential case include:
Infrastructure impact:Â Allegations that the M1 Motorway acted as a levee bank, altering natural water flows.
Construction issues:Â Claims that the roadway was constructed in a way that aggravated pre-existing flood levels.
Government responsibility: Questions about the role of State and Federal governments in approving and overseeing the highway’s construction.
- The effect on water flow following flood events
- The effect on flood levels
- The unprecedented damage.
The potential environmental impact of the alleged issues, includes:
- Altered flood plain configurations
- Increased erosion
- Habitat destruction.
The flood event has had significant economic repercussions:
- Significant property damage (thousands of homes and businesses damaged or destroyed)
- Property value depreciation
- Business interruption
- Agricultural losses
- Adverse Insurance premiums.
What’s next?
Are you eligible for compensation?
You may be eligible to join the potential class action and claim compensation if:
- You owned property or operated a business in the Northern Rivers region during the February and March 2022 floods.
- You suffered property damage, economic loss, or other negative impact due to the flooding.
- You believe the M1 Pacific Motorway construction contributed to your losses.
To register your interest:
- Document the damages and losses you experienced during the 2022 floods.
- Gather any evidence you have about how the flooring in your area differs from previous flood events.
- Register with GMP Law.
Risk-free participation
There is no financial risk in registering with our firm and becoming a class member. We operate on a No Win No Fee basis. You will not incur any legal fees unless we win your case. If successful, the court may order the defendant to cover your legal fees and out-of-pocket expenses.
If the claim is unsuccessful, you will not be personally liable for any costs.
Take action today to ensure your rights are represented and to pursue the compensation you deserve.
Do you have a class action claim?
Tell us about your experience and one of our compensation experts will be in touch.
