An Irish woman charged with concealing the death of her newborn baby in Australia has been allowed to return home until her case is dealt with.

The 25-year-old is alleged to have given birth in May in the town of Halls Creek while backpacking with friends. She had not realised she was pregnant.

In court this morning, her lawyers successfully applied to have her passport returned, saying she "needs to be with her family". 

The case is due back in court in October, and if convicted she faces two years in prison. The court was told there is an extradition agreement between Ireland and Australia if the woman does not return to face the charge.

Amanda Banks, Legal Affairs Editor of the West Australian newspaper, says the magistrate expressed concern over the woman's wellbeing: