Canberra : The Australian government is facing growing scrutiny after several women and children linked to Islamic State (ISIS) have returned from Syria, despite official denials that any repatriation operations are being conducted.

Reports from multiple sources confirm that at least six women and their children, formerly detained in camps such as al-Hawl and Roj in northeast Syria, have arrived back in Australia in recent weeks. In one case, two women and four children reportedly escaped from a Syrian detention camp, obtained Australian documents in Beirut, and then travelled to Victoria.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has remained silent on the matter, while government officials maintain that Canberra has not played an active role in the repatriations. The Department of Home Affairs has reiterated that Australia has limited consular capacity in Syria and that any returns occurring are not part of an organized government mission.

Opposition leaders and security analysts have called for greater transparency, demanding details on how the returnees were able to re-enter the country and whether the government was aware of or indirectly involved in facilitating their return. Critics also argue that the public deserves to know what measures are being taken to ensure community safety.

Security agencies have confirmed that individuals returning from conflict zones are being closely monitored, with reintegration and deradicalization programs reportedly being coordinated by state police and social services in New South Wales and Victoria.

While humanitarian advocates have welcomed the return of the children, they caution that more comprehensive rehabilitation and mental health support will be needed for families who spent years in war-torn regions.

The latest developments have reignited debate over Australia’s responsibility toward its citizens who joined or were associated with ISIS and the ongoing balance between national security and humanitarian obligations.