A landmark class action trial seeking compensation for the victims of the 2019 Cudlee Creek bushfire has started in South Australia's Supreme Court, with lawyers for the victims alleging SA Power Networks (SAPN) was negligent in the lead-up to the devastating blaze.

Maddens Lawyers, representing the victims, said the case was one of the largest of its kind — involving an estimated 2,000 affected properties, and more than 3,000 individuals.

Some of those affected attended court on Monday for the beginning of the trial, which is expected to last five weeks.

Special Counsel Brendan Pendergast said it was likely that the fire caused more than $200 million in damage, with victims now seeking compensation.

He said it was agreed by both parties that the fire, which broke out in "catastrophic"

See Full Page