Defence showcases counter-terror response

Away from media eyes, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Defence Minister Marise Payne have been treated to a demonstration of just how Australia could respond to a terrorist attack.

In a series of siege scenarios staged on the Holsworthy army base, Commandos stormed buildings by foot and from helicopters, showing how they would bring a terrorist incident to a speedy conclusion.

Because the special forces troops involved can't be identified, the media weren't invited, although Defence subsequently released some selected imagery.

Mr Turnbull said this was especially topical in light of recent terrorist attacks in Pakistan and Belgium, although this particular demonstration was actually arranged some months ago.

He said primary responsibility for responding to a terrorist incident remained with state and federal police forces.

"But the Australian Defence Force has considerable counter-terrorism capability, which it is constantly improving and training and refining," he told reporters.