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Australia’s centre-left Labor government has firmly denied reports that it is preparing to repatriate a group of Australians detained in a Syrian camp linked to suspected Islamic State militants. The clarification follows a local media report claiming authorities were arranging the return of 34 Australian women and children held in northern Syria.
The group was briefly released from the detention camp on Monday but was later returned due to technical issues. Reports indicate they are expected to travel to Damascus before any potential return to Australia. However, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke rejected suggestions that the federal government is actively coordinating their repatriation.
Speaking to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Burke dismissed claims published in the Sunday Telegraph that officials were working with state governments to facilitate the group’s return. “We are not conducting a repatriation,” Burke said, adding that no meetings with state authorities had taken place for that purpose.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has also stated that the government would not assist the group in returning to Australia. The issue remains politically sensitive, as debates over national security, immigration policy, and terrorism laws intensify across the country.
The potential return of relatives of suspected Islamic State members has sparked criticism from both ruling and opposition lawmakers. The controversy comes amid rising support for the right-wing, anti-immigration One Nation party, led by Pauline Hanson, reflecting growing public concern about border security and extremism.
Islamic State is officially designated as a terrorist organisation in Australia, and membership carries a maximum prison sentence of 25 years. Australian law also allows authorities to revoke the citizenship of dual nationals involved with terrorist groups.
The evolving situation continues to draw attention as Australia balances national security priorities with complex humanitarian and legal considerations surrounding citizens detained in Syria.
