Australian PM promises jail for returning jihadists

Sydney - Prime Minister Tony Abbott on Monday warned Australians fighting with extremist groups in the Middle East they face lengthy jail terms if they return home.

"My unambiguous message to all Australians who fight with terrorist groups is that you will be arrested, prosecuted and jailed for a very long time," Abbott told parliament in a statement on national security.

Australia has announced tougher counter-terrorism laws to target home-grown terrorists and those who fight overseas over fears violent jihadist citizens in Syria and Iraq will return home.