Prime Minister Scott Morrison says the unfolding scenes across at the US Capitol today are "very concerning".
Speaking today, Mr Morrison said he is hopeful of a peaceful transition of power as Joe Biden prepares to take office later this month.
"Scenes in Washington DC have been terribly distressing ... very concerning" Mr Morrison said.
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As a result, the government has changed travel advice for Australians in the United States.
"You should avoid areas where protests are occurring due to the potential for violence," Mr Morrison said.
"We hope for a peaceful and stable transition of power to the government elected by the American people.
"Our thoughts are with them and we hope for that peaceful transition to take place."
READ MORE: Curfew in force but protests continue after US Capitol stormed
The riots at the US Capitol sent it into lockdown as Congress tries to finalise the election result.
The area has since been secured and a curfew is in place.
Earlier, the Prime Minister said on Twitter he condemned the violent situation in Washington in which one woman was shot and killed.
READ MORE: Twitter locks Donald Trump's account for 12 hours in wake of US Capitol riots
https://twitter.com/ScottMorrisonMP/status/1346949911237914625?ref_src=twsrc%5EtfwMr Morrison said the US remained a a close ally of Australia's.
"A great friend of Australia and one of the world's great democracies," he said.
"It's heartbreaking to see what's happening over there."
The Prime Minister would not be drawn further on the situation in the US but confirmed no diplomatic changes had been made.
Foreign Minister Marise Payne also took to Twitter this morning to express concern at the alarming scenes.
READ MORE: Obama condemns 'violence incited by Donald Trump' after US Capitol stormed
https://twitter.com/MarisePayne/status/1346962576568041473?ref_src=twsrc%5EtfwMr Morrison also flagged that Australians should continue to be mindful of the large coronavirus numbers in the US and ensure they are engaging in COVID safe practices.
Meanwhile across the ditch, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern expressed her concern over the riots.
"Like so many others, I've been watching what's happening in the United States. I share the sentiment of friends in the US - what is happening is wrong," she said on Twitter.
"Democracy - the right of people to exercise a vote, have their voice heard and then have that decision upheld peacefully should never be undone by a mob. Our thoughts are with everyone who is as devastated as we are by the events of today. I have no doubt democracy will prevail."
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