How is Syria our drama?   Why are we taking a lead role?   We have illegal boats lob here several times a day - one country Sri Lanka seems inclined to do its bit to help stop the boats - where are you at with Indonesia cracking down Bob?

Bob Carr reveals plan to take lead role in aid for Syrian refugees

AUSTRALIA has taken a lead role in Syria's humanitarian crisis amid warnings that if not resolved within months, the world would have to deal with the greatest exodus of refugees since World War II.

Foreign Minister Bob Carr last night took an emergency aid plan to a meeting of European foreign leaders and the Arab League which said Australia would immediately boost its medical and food aid by $24 million for the two million people so far forced from their homes.

Mr Carr said Australia would also offer to help rebuild a future democratic government in the war-torn Middle Eastern country, but demanded terrorist groups such as al-Qaeda played no role in ruling the country.

The country's chemical weapons would also have to be secured so they did not fall into the hands of terrorists.