Tony Abbott issues message to the Australian people as Sydney café siege continues

Prime Minister Tony Abbott has addressed the nation as the Sydney café siege stretches beyond its eighth hour.

He said he had again convened a meeting of the National Security Committee, with input from NSW premier Mike Baird and NSW police commissioner Andrew Scipione.

“This is a very disturbing incident. It is profoundly shocking that innocent people should be held hostage by an armed person claiming political motivation,” Mr Abbott said.

He praised police the public for their handling of the siege so far.

“You can be proud of the way your police and security bodies have responded to the events of this day,” he said.

“I think I can also commend the people of Sydney for the calmness in which they have reacted to this disturbing incident.

Mr Abbott said Australians would remain resolute in the face of such attacks.

“We are a free, open and generous people and today we have responded to this in character,” he said.

“Yes, it has been a difficult day. Yes, it has tested us, but so far, like Australians in all sorts of situations, we have risen to the challenge.”