Thousands of students and other short-term visa holders from Myanmar will be allowed to stay in Australia until it is safe to return to the conflict-torn country.
The federal government is writing to all Myanmar citizens temporarily in Australia with advice on how to lawfully remain in the country, after a military junta seized control of their homeland earlier this year.
Various options will be made available, including the granting of new visas.
"These arrangements will support Myanmar nationals in Australia who are affected by the ongoing unrest in Myanmar, consistent with Australia's international obligations," Immigration Minister Alex Hawke said.
"Australia continues to strongly urge the Myanmar security forces to exercise restraint and refrain from violence against civilians, release those detained arbitrarily and engage in dialogue."
Mr Hawke again condemned the ongoing violence in Myanmar on behalf of the Australian government.
Meanwhile, the Department of Home Affairs has launched an investigation into relatives of Myanmar's military living in Australia, over concerns they are either harbouring assets or receiving financial support following the coup.
Nine Entertainment reports the government will assess whether to cancel, or not renew, the visas of at least 22 relatives of senior members of Myanmar's new government who are living in Australia.
Myanmar has been gripped by months of violence after the military overthrew the country's democratically elected government in February.
Hundreds of civilians have been killed in the violent crackdown and thousands more have been detained by Myanmar security forces, including ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi and Australian economist Sean Turnell.
Australia has suspended military assistance to Myanmar and redirected aid to non-government organisations.
The government has repeatedly called for the release of Professor Turnell, who has been held in detention since February 6.
Australian Associated Press
