Last Islamic State-linked Australian woman from Syrian camp to return despite previous ban

Hodan Abby, an Australian woman with suspected links to the Islamic State group, has been granted authorisation to return to Australia on June 25, 2026. This decision follows advice from government agencies and legal counsel indicating that a previously issued criminal exclusion order could no longer be enforced. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke stated that Abby will be subject to an "unprecedented level of security monitoring" upon her arrival, which will include continuous surveillance and mandatory regular reporting to authorities. She is understood to be the last Australian woman with alleged Islamic State ties to be repatriated from Syrian displacement camps. The government's decision reflects a complex legal and security situation, balancing national security concerns with international obligations and legal advice. The specific details of the legal advice that led to the revocation of the exclusion order have not been fully disclosed, but it is understood to be a significant factor in the authorisation of her return. The Australian Federal Police and other intelligence agencies will be involved in managing her return and subsequent monitoring.