So-called 'change-of-heart' Jihadists seeking to return to Australia could prove a valuable tool in deradicalising other would-be recruits, a terror expert and a Muslim leader say, suggesting that punishment and rehabilitation could go hand-in-hand.
It has been revealed that up to a dozen change-of-heart jihadists seeking a return to Australia are believed to be in talks with government and police.
Many could face punishment in Syria and Iraq even before they return, with the Federal Police hosing down speculations they could participate in local deradicalisation efforts.
The Islamic Council of Victoria said those who have experienced the reality of IS could be a valuable commodity in deradicalisation.
“The basis that they can support and assist police and the Australian Government in providing a counter-narrative and trying to dissuade young people from going over or taking a radical point of view,” said Karunda Seyit from the Islamic Council of Victoria.
Anne Aly, a counter-terrorism expert at Curtin University and a Muslim herself also said there was merit in utilising those who manage to return.
“Those who have seen what it is like are very valuable voices against Islamic State and very valuable forces against Islamic State recruitment,” she said.
Dr Aly is launching an initiative encouraging young Muslims to suggest solutions for violent extremism.
She says almost without exception, IS propaganda is delivered by spokespeople under the age of 25, because they understand the value and power of peer-to-peer influence.
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The Australian Federal Police said prosecution is the priority.
“There's a lot of risk involved in anyone coming back and I think it's too early to say whether or not we would look at any of these people being involved in a counter radicalisation program,” said Neil Gaughan, who is the National Manager of Counter Terrorism with the Australian Federal Police.
“We will work through the issues. They have been exposed to some atrocities. There'll be mental health issues. It's a very complex issue.”
Earlier today Prime Minister Tony Abbott said Australians returning from fighting alongside Islamic State could have their co-operation with authorities taken into account when they are sentenced.
Lawyers say some of those seeking to return are willing to help deradicalise young people and point out the evils of IS.
The prime minister told reporters in Brisbane on Wednesday he was pleased Australians were becoming disillusioned with the "death cult" and wanted to come home.
But Mr Abbott said they have committed serious crimes and must be arrested and prosecuted.
However, he admitted there was scope for them to co-operate and potentially get a lesser sentence.
Co-operating with authorities, pleas and evidence of contrition were all things routinely taken into account by the criminal justice system.
"But it's a serious crime under Australian law to fight with a terrorist organisation and ... the last thing we want is people who have been radicalised and brutalised by an evil death cult roaming our streets."
-With AAP
