Updated 8.12pm: The bulk of our Defence Force troops bound for Iraq have left for Australia today.

The contingent left New Zealand from the Air Force Base at Ohakea.

They were farewelled by Governor General Sir Jerry Mateparae, Commander of Joint Forces - Major Tim Gall, and the Chief of Army - Major General Dave Gawn.

Some troops left with Australian Defence Force personnel last week.

The Defence Force says with the requirement to keep our personnel safe, it won't be providing details on the onward deployment of the contingent to the Middle East from Australia.

Taskforce Taji will help train the local army in the fight against Islamic State.

Prime Minister Tony Abbott has told them they are helping to improve the freedom not just for the innocent Iraqis but Australians too.

"The Daesh death cult, which now holds sway over so much of Eastern Syria and Northern Iraq, has been reaching out to parts of Australia as well."