Government monitoring Sydney siege

Prime Minister John Key says the New Zealand Government is currently monitoring the situation in Sydney as events continue to unfold.

“Our hearts go out to those involved and our thoughts are very much with them and their families,” says Mr Key.

Prime Minister John Key contacted Prime Minister Tony Abbott directly to offer a message of support, shortly after the siege got underway today.

Currently, agencies are unable to confirm the nationalities of those involved, including whether any New Zealanders have been caught up in this situation.

Authorities in New Zealand and Australia will continue to stay in close contact as events unfold and facts become clearer.

Given the situation is still developing, there is currently no further information or comment to add.