Hong Kong: Australia considering offering safe haven to residents threatened by China national security law

Prime Minister Scott Morrison says his government is considering an offer of safe haven to Hong Kong residents threatened by China's move to impose a tough national security law on the semi-autonomous territory.

Mr Morrison said Cabinet would soon consider options "to provide similar opportunities" as British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has offered Hong Kongers.

READ MORE: Hong Kong to be governed by mysterious law secretly passed by China

"When we have made a final decision on those arrangements, then I'll make the announcements," Mr Morrison told reporters today.

"But if you're asking: are we prepared to step up and provide support? The answer is: yes."

Britain is extending residency rights for up to three million Hong Kongers eligible for British National Overseas passports, allowing them to live and work in the UK for five years.

Mr Morrison said "we think that's important and very consistent with who we are as a people and very consistent practically with the views that we've expressed".

Australia could potentially offer Hong Kong residents temporary protection visas that allow refugees to live in the country for up to three years.

China bypassed Hong Kong's Legislative Council to pass the sweeping legislation without public consultation.

READ MORE: Hong Kong police arrest man for independence flag under new law

Foreign Minister Marise Payne said the laws threatened Hong Kong's judicial independence and the rights and freedoms of its people.

An offer of safe haven to Hong Kong residents would further strain relations between Australia and its most important trading partner, China.

"They have not positively contributed to Australia's - or the region's - security and stability," Defence Minister Linda Reynolds told a security think-tank.

"Australia has watched closely as China has actively sought greater influence in the Indo-Pacific.

"Australia is far from alone in being troubled by this."

Mr Morrison yesterday announced $270 billion in additional defence spending over the next decade, which will include long-range missiles and other capabilities to hold enemies further from its shores.