NSW Premier says Australian ISIS-linked women, children in Syrian camp could resettle
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Up to one-third of a group of Australian women and children with alleged links to the self-declared Islamic State (ISIS) may resettle in New South Wales (NSW) if they are eventually allowed to return from a Syrian refugee camp, NSW Premier Chris Minns said on Monday.
The group of 34 Australians — 11 women and 23 children — has been living for years in the Roj Camp in northeastern Syria, a facility housing families of ISIS militants.
Last week they attempted to leave the camp to travel via Damascus and eventually return to Australia, but Syrian government authorities blocked their departure due to coordination issues, forcing them back to Roj Camp.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has made clear the federal government will not facilitate or fund repatriation of the cohort, stating that those who travelled to support the extremist cause must face the “full force of the law” if they return home.
His government also said some individuals have been issued Australian passports, but no active repatriation operation is underway.
The issue has become a flashpoint in Australian politics. The federal Opposition has proposed laws to criminalize anyone who aids the return of people linked to terrorist organizations, arguing national security should take precedence.
Humanitarian groups, including Save the Children, warn that leaving children in harsh camp conditions poses serious risks to their welfare and development.
In NSW, Minns acknowledged safeguards and support systems would be needed for any returnees, especially children, to ensure their well-being and successful reintegration.
The debate highlights deep tensions between security concerns, legal obligations and humanitarian considerations as Australia grapples with how to handle its nationals connected to extremist environments abroad.
Since the defeat of ISIS in 2019, Australian women and their children — many of whom were married to militants — have been detained in camps like Roj in northeastern Syria. Canberra has repatriated small groups in the past but has resisted further government-led returns amid political pressure and security worries.
In February 2026, 34 Australians sought to leave the camp on their own, only to be turned back by Syrian authorities.
The ongoing dilemma poses legal, ethical and security questions for Australian authorities about citizenship rights, counter-terrorism laws and the treatment of children affected by extremism.