In a statement released on Thursday afternoon,Senator Payne called for police and protesters to"exercise restraint and take genuine steps to de-escalate tensions". She said police should respond proportionately to the protests.
"We are deeply concerned by the violence in Hong Kong and the increasing divide between the authorities and Hong Kong people,"she said.
"Australia continues to urge genuine efforts by all parties to find an effective political solution that supports and upholds Hong Kong's freedoms and advantages,an open and accountable law enforcement and the professional and unbiased application of justice."
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Senator Payne backed recent advice from an international expert panel on Hong Kong's police watchdog,finding the body did not have the capacity to properly investigate police. The panel recommended independent investigation into officers'responses to the protests.
"Australia encourages the Hong Kong authorities to address the panel's recommendations,"she said."These steps are essential for any meaningful dialogue and restoring the trust of Hong Kong's people."
The protests have become increasingly dangerous this week,with a police officer shooting a man in the chest and protesters dousing a man in petrol and setting him on fire.