Australia formally lists Boko Haram as a terrorist group

Australia has formally listed Nigerian militant group Boko Haram as a terrorist organisation.

A screengrab taken from a video distributed through an intermediary shows a man claiming to be the leader of Boko Haram, Abubakar Shekau. (AFP)

The move makes it illegal to fund, train with, recruit for or become a member of the group that became notorious when it kidnapped 250 schoolgirls in April.

Australia has joined with the US, UK, Canada and Nigeria in their decision to list the group.

Prime Minister Tony Abbott announced plans to list Boko Haram last month, saying the world was transfixed and horrified by the group's hostage taking.

They are also responsible for the deaths of another 300 people in recent bombings.

People found to be associated with the group could face up to 25 years in jail.