The Australian government is closely monitoring the situation in Thailand, but understands the army has not staged a coup and the caretaker government remains in control.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has been seeking further details from Australia’s embassy in Bangkok after the Royal Thai Army declared martial law across the country on Tuesday.
It’s upgraded its travel advice for the South-East Asian nation popular with Australian tourists, but stopped short of labelling the unfolding crisis as a military coup.
“We understand the Thai military has said that this is not a coup and the caretaker government is still in office,” a DFAT spokesperson told AAP.
“We are following these events closely and encourage all parties to resolve their political differences through peaceful democratic processes.”
The Australian government could update its travel advice depending how the situation develops, but for now is urging travellers to “exercise a high degree of caution” and avoid political gatherings or protests.
It’s unknown exactly how many Australians are currently in Thailand, with DFAT only aware of 5000 who have registered with its Smartraveller website.
The Thai army says it has imposed martial law to restore order following months of deadly anti-government protests.
The imposition of martial law follows the dismissal earlier this month of prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra, in a controversial court ruling that sent tensions soaring.
Comment has been sought from Foreign Minister Julie Bishop.
