Aussies warned as Thailand heads to polls

Australia has issued a travel warning for Thailand as protests turn violent ahead of next week's general election.

Australians have been urged to avoid all polling places, political rallies, protests and processions through the capital Bangkok.

This includes streets near protest locations that have been closed to vehicles and converted into outdoor markets.

"Thailand has the Australian government's support as it tries to find ways to settle its political difficulties," Foreign Minister Julie Bishop said in a statement on Friday night.