China arrests Australian writer on espionage charges

Australia government has confirmed the arrest of Chinese-Australian writer Yang Hengjun on espionage charges in China after months of detention.

Hengjun was reported to have been held in Beijing since January under harsh conditions.

Report says he had been held without charge for more than seven months, during which Canberra has repeatedly pressed Beijing to release him.

Foreign minister Marise Payne said Australia was very concerned and disappointed to learn of the arrest.