Travel to the US from Australia: Federal government issues travel warning after Capitol Hill riots

Prime Minister Scott Morrison says the national travel advice for the United States has been changed in the wake of the riots at Capitol Hill in Washington.

He said the scenes coming out of the US were "terribly distressing".

"They are very concerning," he said. "As a result we are making some changes to our travel advice."

Australians are being advised not to travel to areas in the US where there are riots, due to the "ongoing potential for violence".

Those who are in the US are being urged to take care and listen to officials.

Mr Morrison said he hoped a "peaceful transition" of power would take place.

The SmartTraveller website has been updated, advising Australians not to travel to America, including Alaska, Puerto Rico and the Hawaiin Islands.

"Due to violent protests in Washington DC, curfews are in place in the District of Columbia and Commonwealth of Virginia from 6pm on Wednesday 6 January to 6am on Thursday 7 January 2021," the advice reads.

"You should avoid areas where protests are occurring due to the ongoing potential for violence.

"Follow the instructions of local authorities including curfews and stay at home orders. Monitor the media for information and updates.

"COVID-19 remains a serious health risk. Various restrictions and public health measures are in place and vary by location. Follow the instructions of local authorities, including those related to quarantine, self-isolation, social-distancing and the wearing of masks. Monitor the embassy website for further COVID-19 related information."