George Brandis (Queensland, Liberal Party, Attorney-General) Share this | Hansard source

Indeed, Senator Eggleston, the government is seriously concerned about Australians fighting in Syria including some who, we understand, are fighting with Jabhat al-Nusra, which is a listed terrorist organisation. As the Director-General of the Australian Security and Intelligence Organisation reported in the ASIO annual report, which was tabled on 31 October this year, there has been an increase in the number of Australians travelling overseas to participate in terrorist training and to engage in foreign disputes, with Syria being the primary destination. The concern is not only for Australians who risk their lives overseas but also we are concerned about the likelihood of radicalised Australians returning home with an increased commitment and capability to pursue violent acts on our shores. The government shares the Director-General's concerns about radicalised Australians who return home and pose a serious threat to Australia's national security.