A nurse based south of Perth has been deported to New Zealand because he engaged in criminal conduct and for other reasons, not because he visited Syria, federal authorities say.
A spokesman for the Department of Immigration and Border Protection said Mandurah man Warren Marriner was removed from Australia on Saturday and was not a permanent resident.
News Corp is citing Mr Marriner as saying he expected a reaction from the federal government after he flew to Syria on a peace mission, but he didn't anticipate being deported for a cannabis conviction dating back to when he was aged 18.
"Being deported from Austraila for not putting down minor convictions from 35 years ago. Imigration had known a(b)out," he posted on Facebook.
"Visa revoked, at detention centre. Hmmm not surprised. Lol goodbye AU."
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The department spokesman said Mr Marriner had failed to disclose prior criminal convictions and abide by visa conditions, provided incorrect information to enter Australia and presented a risk to the community.
"This individual's visa was not cancelled due to his recent travel movements," he said.
