Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he was “very concerned” for the police officers involved.

“Our thoughts are with the police for the work they do, each and every day. The men and women who wear our uniform, wear the uniform of the police take risks each and every day,” the PM told media in Canberra.

“The Victorian police commissioner will be providing updates during the afternoon as more facts that are able to be released become clear.”

Australian Federal Police Commissioner Reece Kershaw joined Albanese and said there were “grave fears” for the officers as the incident unfolds.

“Just from the police blue family, the wider family across Australia, and overseas, our thoughts and prayers are with Victoria Police right now,” Kershaw said.

“And we hope that they are all safe and well, however, we’re hearing there are some grave concerns for some of those police officers and our hearts go out to the community.”