France declares state of emergency

epaselect epa05023832 Police officers gather outside the Bataclan concert venue in Paris, France, 13 November 2015, where a gunman has reportedly taken people hostage. At least 26 people have died in attacks in Paris on 13 November after reports of a shootout and explosions near the Stade de France stadium.  EPA/CHRISTOPHE PETIT TESSON

This story was published on Saturday, and has since been updated as more news has come to light.

French President Francois Hollande has declared a state of emergency across the country after Paris attacks left 129 dead.

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop, who advised nationals to get in touch with the consulate, and to stay in hotels or accommodation and not travel until further advice from the French government is received. 2,500 Australians have registered with Smart Traveller in France, Bishop stated, but expected the real number of Aussies in France to be higher.

The state of emergency will be “declared across the entire country”, Hollande said, as a hostage-taking continued at a popular music venue in the capital. France has not declared a state of emergency since 1945.

In a brief statement on television, Hollande also announced the “the closure of national borders”.

Meanwhile, American Airlines have delayed flights to Paris, and Belgium has imposed frontier controls on road, rail and air arrivals from France.

Australia’s DFAT Smart Traveller advice states:

“Australians in Paris should minimise movement in public places, follow the media for latest information on security and follow the instructions of local authorities. French authorities have announced the closure of the country’s borders. You should contact your airline or transport provider to determine how this could impact your travel plans. At a minimum, you should expect increased security and identity checks at borders.

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