Removal of war crime risk a step closer

Safeguards to prevent Australian defence personnel from being charged with war crimes for killing Islamic State operatives who aren't actively fighting have passed parliament's lower house.

The legislation introduced in October brings Australian law in line with international rules and distinguishes non-state fighters from civilians.

"The bill applies to ADF operations fighting Daesh in theatre, including our air strikes in support of the liberation of Mosul," Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull told parliament on Wednesday.