Aust gives $500k to Indonesia quake relief

Australia has given $500,000 to help victims of Indonesia's devastating earthquake and tsunami on the central Sulawesi island and more support is on its way.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison says the initial funds were given to the Indonesian Red Cross for the most obvious emergency aid needs, such as tarpaulins.

But Australia's ambassador to Indonesia is consulting with the country's government on more support, with announcements due soon.

"Australia has expertise, it has resources in particular areas," Mr Morrison told reporters in Perth on Tuesday.

"We're looking to see how we can best fit the need to ensure that we can do whatever we can to support our Indonesian friends and neighbours in this time of very genuine need."

At least 844 people have died as a result of Friday's disaster.

The prime minister said it was a "very, very significant crisis" and Australia's support won't only be aimed at short-term relief.

"The sort of responses we are going to be making, won't just deal with what is needed right today, but over some period of time as well," he said.

Video posted online of the earthquake's aftermath shows a tsunami rushing through buildings and knocking down trees, as people scream for help.