THE HON ANTHONY ALBANESE MP
PRIME MINISTER OF AUSTRALIA

SENATOR THE HON PENNY WONG
LEADER OF THE GOVERNMENT IN THE SENATE
MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS

THE HON TONY BURKE MP
MINISTER FOR HOME AFFAIRS
MINISTER FOR IMMIGRATION AND MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS

The Australian Government can confirm that Australian citizens, Matthew Norman, Scott Rush, Martin Stephens, Si Yi Chen, and Michael Czugaj have returned to Australia.

The five men committed serious offences, serving over 19 years in prison in Indonesia.

We would like to convey our deep appreciation to the Government of Indonesia for its cooperation to facilitate the men’s return to Australia on humanitarian grounds.

This reflects the strong bilateral relationship and mutual respect between Indonesia and Australia.

The Australian Government has consistently advocated for the men and provided consular support to them and their families.

The men will have the opportunity to continue their personal rehabilitation and reintegration in Australia.

We ask that the media respect the privacy of the men and their families at this time.

Media Contacts:
Prime Minister's Office: +61 2 6277 7744

Foreign Minister's Office: +61 2 6277 7500

Minister Burke's Office: +61 2 6277 7860

Authorised by Senator the Hon Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Australia.