Australia closely monitors the "highly fluid" situation in Turkey: FM

Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop said in a statement on Saturday that her government is monitoring the situation in Turkey closely.

She described the situation in Turkey as "highly fluid".

"The government is monitoring reports of a possible attempted military coup unfolding in Turkey," the statement said.

Bishop said her department is in contact with the Australian Embassy in Ankara and she herself has spoken this morning with Australian Ambassador to Turkey James Larsen to seek to determine the facts as the situation unfolds.

"Our priority is the safety of Australian citizens in Turkey. Australians in Turkey should be vigilant, monitor media, follow the direction of local authorities and advise friends and family in Australia that they are safe."

The travel advice for Turkey has been updated to reflect the unfolding developments. However, the overall level of advice has not changed.

A military statement on Turkish media said Friday the armed forces have fully seized power in the country, but Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said early Saturday the coup attempt has failed, urging people to protect democracy. Endit