The Australian Government has announced the suspension of operations at its embassy in Tehran, and urged all staff and their families to leave Iran.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong released a statement early on Friday morning, and says the decision was made “based on advice about the deteriorating security environment in Iran”.

“We urge Australians who are able to leave Iran to do so now, if it is safe. Those who are unable to, or do not wish to leave, are advised to shelter in place,” Wong said.

Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today

“Australia’s Ambassador to Iran will remain in the region to support the Australian Government’s response to this crisis.”

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is deploying consular staff to Azerbaijan, including its border crossings, to support Australians departing Iran.

DFAT will also continue to provide support through the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre, direct contact with Australian citizens who have registered on our crisis portal and updates to travel advice.

Australians in Iran seeking consular assistance should call the Australian Government’s 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia, and 1300 555 135 in Australia.

The move is in line with other nations who have also suspended operation of embassies in Tehran, including New Zealand and Switzerland.

“We are continuing planning to support Australians seeking to depart Iran, and we remain in close contact with other partner countries,” Wong said.

“At this stage, our ability to provide consular services is extremely limited due to the situation on the ground. The airspace remains closed.”

More than 2000 Australians have registered for assistance to depart Iran, up from 1500 yesterday.

Health Minister Mark Butler told Sunrise the Australian Government is taking the issue seriously.

“It is a difficult and hard situation ... and we will be exploring every opportunity we can to support people getting out,” Butler said.

“Register so we have your name and contact details, and so when the opportunity arises you can get out.”

Australia deploys defence force personnel to region

DFAT is deploying extra support to the region, including Defence Force personnel and aircraft for potential evacuations.

“I emphasise the airspace remains closed, and we are doing this as part of preparing contingency plans post the airspace becoming open,” Wong said.

“I also emphasise the personnel we are sending are to help Australians and are not there for combat.”

Foreign Minister Penny Wong also spoke with the US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, today on the crisis.

“We had a good discussion about the way through this conflict,” Wong said.

“I emphasis there is an opportunity given what President Trump has said, there is an opportunity over the next two weeks for de-escalation dialogue and diplomacy.

“We want Iran to return to the table. We want Iran to stop its nuclear weapons program. That’s the call we’ve made and that’s the call other countries have made.”