Law change to remove IS war crime risk

The federal government has introduced legislation to remove the risk of war crime accusations from attacks on Islamic State members not in active combat.

The possibility of Australian defence personnel being charged with war crimes by bombing Islamic State operatives who aren't actively fighting are to be removed.

Cabinet minister Peter Dutton on Wednesday introduced to parliament a bill to bring Australian law in line with international rules and distinguish non-state fighters from civilians.

It means personnel could no longer be charged with war crimes by killing or injuring members of Islamic State who aren't on the frontline in combat.