NSW prepares for possible return of Islamic State-linked women and children from Syria

NSW prepares for possible return of Islamic State-linked women and children from Syria Premier Chris Minns says state has been working with federal government as group of 11 women and 23 children attempt to leave refugee camp Get our breaking news email , free app or daily news podcast New South Wales authorities are preparing for about a third of the group of Australian women and children linked to Islamic State fighters to return to the state, if authorities in Syria allow them to leave the Roj refugee camp. The premier, Chris Minns , said the state government had been discussing the possible return of some of the 11 women and 23 children with federal government agencies since late 2025, and a strong law enforcement response was expected. The group tried to leave the camp last week but were blocked by Syrian government authorities. Amid heated debate about the group’s possible return between the federal government and the Coalition in Canberra, Minns on Monday said he had no sympathy for adults who had left Australia to fight in the Middle East, but he was concerned for the welfare of children trapped in a dangerous situation. “The reality is NSW government agencies have been working with the commonwealth since the end of last year about possible arrivals from Syria, from refugee camps,” he said. “It’s been on an official-to-officials level, and it has to do with what happens if, or when, they return to NSW. “In those circumstances, we’ve got strong laws on the books already for anybody that leaves Australia to go and join a terrorist organisation overseas. And Australians would expect the law to be upheld in any or all of those circumstances.” Sign up: AU Breaking News email The federal opposition has called for new rules to prevent the group from returning, blasting Labor for issuing them passports, even as the federal government insists it will not provide help or repatriation to the group. Under the Passports Act , Australian citizens are entitled to a passpor...