The decision to have Turkish troops enter north-eastern Syria and launch a ground offensive against Kurdish fighters has been described as having 'grave consequences.'
The Australian government says it is "deeply troubled" by the unilateral operation which Turkey's defence ministry claims has already seen 181 Kurdish "terror group" targets struck so far.
Turkish media said special forces and armoured vehicles led the ground invasion at several points along the border, with airstrikes killing at least five civilians and three SDF fighters.
A Turkish army's tank drives towards the border with Syria near Akcakale in Sanliurfa province. Source: AFP
Monitoring groups allege at least 15 civilians were killed during the conflict.
The conflict flared up after the Trump administration announced it would be pulling troops out of Syria's northeast, effectively paving way for Turkish operations.
In a statement, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the federal government has flagged its concerns with the situation, warning or dire outcomes should the conflict be allowed to continue.
"It will cause additional civilian suffering, lead to greater population displacement, and further inhibit humanitarian access," Mr Morrison said.
Turkish army soldiers drive towards the border with Syria near Akcakale in Sanliurfa province. Source: AFP
"We have expressed this view directly to the Turkish Government."
Sydney's Kurdish community has already come together to condemn the US troop withdrawal, demanding Australia's political leaders communicate their concerns with the White House.
The Prime Minister says Australia is acutely aware of the commitment Syrian fighters have made in stabilising the region.
"The Australian Government notes that the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have been steadfast partners for the International Coalition in the fight against Da'esh, and have borne a significant share of the sacrifice," he said.
"We urge restraint and call on all parties to the conflict in Syria to avoid escalatory or opportunistic actions that cause further instability and humanitarian suffering."
