The revelation that Johnson & Johnson knew for decades that its baby powder contained asbestos has opened the door for local law firms to take on the multinational pharmaceutical giant for any Australian victims who may have been exposed to the toxic mineral.

News agency Reuters revealed on Saturday that internal reports and other confidential documents showed J&J knew about the presence of small amounts of asbestos in its products from at least 1971.

The evidence surfaced after people who suspected that its talc had caused their cancers hired lawyers experienced in the decades-long deluge of litigation involving workers exposed to asbestos.

Johnson & Johnson have been accused of knowing asbestos was in their talcum powder. Credit:AP

When asked about the potential risks faced by Australian consumers and whether the ingredients used in the Australian product was the same as its US-equivalent, a Johnson & Johnson Australia spokeswoman would not respond.