The high-profile case began in 2005 when Indonesia caught nine young Australians trying to smuggle 8.3kg (18lb) of heroin out of Bali strapped to their bodies. The eight men and one woman were arrested at an airport and hotel in Bali after a tip-off from Australian police.

The remaining five Australians from the infamous “Bali Nine” drug gang are “relieved and happy” to be home after Canberra struck a deal with Jakarta to end their two decades of imprisonment.

Five Australian men arrested when they were aged between 18 and 28 trying to smuggle heroin out of Indonesia have been freed.

Prime minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the return of Matthew Norman, Scott Rush, Martin Stephens, Si Yi Chen, and Michael Czugaj in a statement on Sunday. "These Australians served more than 19 years in prison in Indonesia. It was time for them to come home," Mr Albanese said.

After almost two decades in prison, the five remaining members of the Bali Nine drug smuggling ring have returned to Australia. It's one of the most significant diplomatic deals struck between Australia and Indonesia.

Yusril Ihza Mahendra stated that the Australian government has agreed to the conditions set by Indonesia for the transfer of five Bali Nine inmates.

Five of the so-called “Bali Nine” prisoners were returned to Australia, more than 19 years after their arrests in a drug smuggling case that periodically damaged ties with Indonesia.