Boat intercepted off Ashmore Reef

Another boatload of suspected asylum seekers has been intercepted off Australia's northwest coast.

Initial indications from the government suggest the boat, intercepted north of the Ashmore Islands by HMAS Launceston, is carrying 60 asylum seekers and two crew.

"The group will be transferred to Christmas Island where they will undergo security, identity and health checks and their reasons for travel will be established," a statement from Home Affairs Minister Brendan O'Connor said.