Sanctions against Russia start up

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop says expanded Australian sanctions against Russia have come into effect.

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop has said expanded sanctions against Russia have come into force. (AAP)

Expanded trade and travel sanctions against Russia have come into force.

Australia has implemented the new restrictions on trade in arms, mining equipment, financial instruments and infrastructure investment in response to Russia's ongoing aggression and threats to Ukraine.

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop says the sanctions, announced in September, are similar to those implemented by Europe, Canada and the United States.