On the front foot? Preserving Australia's security against the threat posed by returning foreign fighters

This paper examines the potential threat to Australia's security posed by the return of foreign fighters. It argues that a number of these individuals will return to Australia over the next ten years with the know-how and wherewithal to cause harm through a terrorist act—and that the numbers are expected to increase. The implications for Australia's security are serious, including the potential for innocent Australians to be killed.

The paper examines the Australian Government's response to this strategic-level security threat, which has included the introduction of pioneering legislation, additional funding of intelligence and law enforcement agencies, and the introduction of a range of complementary approaches. It concludes that while the Australian Government is taking seriously the risk posed to national security—and is effectively managing the domestic risk associated with the return of foreign fighters—it needs also to collaborate in managing the issue at an international level.

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