Unveiling tough new policies aimed at countering the threat posed by Islamist radicals, Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott has announced his plan to withdraw citizenship from dual nationals who fight alongside militants overseas as well as those who carry out "lone wolf" domestic attacks.
However, he said the decision would be subject to judicial review. The legislation, which will be rolled out in a few weeks, and will not apply to Australian citizens who do not hold a second passport, reports The New York Times.
Australians could face up to decade in jail for overseas travel to areas declared off limits.
The new legislation will be introduced by amending the nation's Citizenship Act to target those foreign fighters, as well "lone wolves" in Australia who have been inspired by them to carry out attacks on the homeland, Abbott said.
The prime minister said that at least 100 Australians were fighting alongside militants in Iraq and Syria, backed by about 150 Australia-based "facilitators". Attorney General George Brandis said that 40 to 50 percent of those fighting abroad had dual nationality.
