Australia news LIVE: Coalition seeks to criminalise actions of anyone assisting IS brides to return to Australia; Armed man shot and killed trying to enter Trump’s Mar-a-Lago
Sydney Morning Herald
by Emily KaineFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Coalition in Australia has announced plans to introduce new laws aimed at criminalizing individuals who assist ISIS-linked individuals, including "ISIS brides," in returning to the country. Opposition Leader Angus Taylor and Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Jonno Duniam argue that these measures are necessary to protect national security, despite potential legal challenges. They have criticized the Albanese government for failing to act on the issue, with Taylor accusing Labor of secrecy surrounding its handling of a group of 34 ISIS-linked women and children attempting to return home.
The proposed legislation has sparked debate over its legality. Attorney-General Michelle Rowland acknowledged that the government is reviewing the legal feasibility of such laws, as international law generally guarantees the right of return for citizens. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has dismissed the Coalition's proposal as "not serious," while Rowland emphasized that current repatriation processes are based on laws implemented during Scott Morrison's tenure.
Taylor and Duniam have refused to provide specific details about how the new laws would operate, stating that the legislation will be clear and straightforward. They claimed the laws target "terrorists and terrorist-sympathizers," but critics, including Save the Children Australia, have raised concerns about their potential impact on humanitarian efforts and children's rights.
The issue has taken center stage in Australian politics as a matter of national security and public safety. While the Coalition frames it as a proactive measure to prevent threats, the government maintains that existing laws are sufficient to address the risks posed by returning ISIS-linked individuals. The debate highlights the tension between enforcing strict security measures and respecting legal and humanitarian obligations.
Ultimately, this proposal reflects broader concerns about terrorism, immigration, and the balance between national security and individual rights. As the political landscape in Australia continues to evolve, the outcome of these legislative efforts will have significant implications for both domestic policy and international perceptions of Australia's approach to counterterrorism.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/23/2026