Would-be IS fighter a good boy: NSW mum

The mother of a Sydney man charged with allegedly trying to travel to Syria to fight with Islamic State says she was surprised when her "good boy" was arrested at the city's international airport terminal.

Australian-born Moudasser Taleb appeared in Sydney's Central Local Court via video link on Friday charged with preparing for an incursion into a foreign country with the intention to carry out violent acts.

The 22-year-old, of Middle Eastern background, was arrested at Sydney Airport on Thursday morning with police alleging he planned to buy a ticket to fly to Lebanon or Turkey before joining Islamic State in Syria.

But Taleb's mother, Angel Merhab, described Islamic State as "ridiculous" and said people that tried to radicalise young Muslims were "evil".

"I was surprised because he wasn't brought up like that," Ms Merhab told Network Ten.

"People that do that are definitely evil.

"I know he is a good boy, a very good boy. All I can say is I love him."

Taleb did not apply for bail on Friday and it was formally refused.

Outside court his lawyer, Zali Burrows, told reporters that Taleb would fight the charge.

"Of course he will," she said.

Ms Burrows also said her client "hasn't eaten for two days".

NSW Deputy Police Commissioner Dave Hudson on Thursday said Taleb radicalised himself online and had been engaging with people overseas.

Authorities do not believe his family were involved or had any prior knowledge of his alleged attempt to flee the country.

Police raided Taleb's Panania home on Thursday removing evidence in brown paper bags and seizing a computer.

Taleb is due to appear in Parramatta Local Court on August 15.