An international terrorism expert has told a counter-terrorism conference there are several terrorist networks
incubating in Australia.
Addressing the Policing, Intelligence and Counter-Terrorism Forum in Sydney, Dr Rohan Gunaratna said recent arrests in Sydney and Melbourne may have foiled planned terrorist attacks but the threat still exists.
He has told delegates there are between 200 and 300 Muslims in Australia who support violent extremism.
"The most dangerous threat to Australia today comes from home-grown networks - what we call the resident threat," he said.
"The threat that primarily stems from the radicalised segments of the Muslim community in Australia - this is the primary threat."
He has predicted that Australia is likely to face a terrorist attack on home soil within the next few years.
Dr Gunaratna warned the most dangerous threat is posed by homegrown terrorist networks, although Australia also faces a threat from groups based in South East Asia.
He told delegates Australia's political leaders must build bridges with muslim communities, and have described their efforts so far as gravely inadequate.