Australians in Egypt have been warned to stay away from public gatherings which could turn violent as parts of the country continue to erupt amid deadly protests.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) on Wednesday confirmed that Australians should reconsider the need to travel to the north African nation, following news that 15 people have been killed in the capital Cairo.
Reports from the city say the deaths occurred as police moved in to disperse two huge protest camps set up in Cairo by supporters of Egypt's ousted president, Mohamed Morsi.
"Australians who remain in Egypt should avoid all demonstrations, protests and large crowds as they may turn violent," DFAT said in a travel warning issued on Wednesday.
Travellers remaining in Egypt should closely monitor media reports warning of civil unrest hotspots.
The department website reports "a number of abductions involving foreign nationals" with some tourists being held by gunmen in regional parts of Egypt.
