Travel to Al-Raqqa removed from the Criminal Code Act

Today we have revoked the declaration of al-Raqqa Province in Syria.

This means that under section 119.3 of the Criminal Code Act 1995, it is no longer an offence for Australian citizens to enter, or remain in al-Raqqa province without a legitimate purpose.

This step has been made possible thanks to advances by local forces which are supported by the Global Coalition, including Australia, to defeat ISIL.

The terrorists have lost almost all of the territory they once held in Syria, including their former de-facto capital, Raqqa city. Millions of people have been freed from ISIL's repressive control in Syria and Iraq.

Those Australians who entered or remained in al-Raqqa province between 5 December 2014 and 28 November 2017, will still be subject to possible investigation, arrest and prosecution by Australian authorities for violations of declared area laws.

The Australian government continues to advise its citizens that Syria remains a 'do not travel destination' as the security situation continues to be extremely dangerous.

It remains illegal for Australian citizens to provide any kind of support to, or fight with, any armed group in Syria or any terrorist organisation listed under Australian law.