The nine children, believed to hold Australian citizenship, are anticipated to receive government-funded assistance as they transition back into life in Australia. This reintegration support is expected to be part of efforts to help them adjust smoothly.
Upon arrival at Sydney and Melbourne international airports on Thursday, three women—Janai Safar, Kawsar Ahmad (also known as Abbas), and Zeinab Ahmad—were taken into custody alongside the children.
Both Zeinab Ahmad and Abbas are now facing charges related to slavery offenses, marking a significant legal milestone in Australia.
This case is unprecedented as it represents the first instance where Australian citizens are being prosecuted for alleged slavery activities that occurred abroad.
The mother and daughter are scheduled for a bail hearing in Melbourne on Monday, where their legal journey will continue.
In the meantime, Safar remains detained in New South Wales, charged with entering a restricted zone and membership in a terrorist organization.
A further 21 Australian women and children remain in refugee camps in north-eastern Syria.
The federal government insists, like this latest group, that they are not being offered support to return to Australia.
“When the Coalition was in government, we saw 40 people come back and not just brides, but actual ISIS fighters come back to this country,” Marles said.
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