Australia thwarts "Islamic-inspired" plane attack plot

Australian security services have disrupted a plot to blow up an aeroplane, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has announced. 

Police arrested four people in connection with the alleged plan. 

Counter-terrorism raids took place took place in Sydney on Saturday afternoon. 

Mr Turnbull said they were "designed to disrupt and prevent plans to undertake terrorist attacks in Australia".

It is not known what the specifics were or when the attack was scheduled to take place, but is believed an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) was the intended weapon. 

The operation was carried out by the Australian Federal Police, the New South Wales state police and the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation, the country's domestic spy agency.

"Four men have been taken into custody and are assisting police with their enquiries," a police statement said.

Seven Network television reported that 40 riot squad officers stormed an inner-Sydney house before an explosives team found a suspicious device.

Mr Turnbull said he was briefed on the progress of the operation by security agency chiefs.

"My number one priority, and that of my government, is the safety and security of all Australians, and the public should be reassured that our security and intelligence agencies are working tirelessly to keep us safe," the prime minister said in a statement.

Security at airports across the country has been increased after the operation, the Sydney Morning Herald reported. Mr Turnbull advised travellers to get to airports earlier than usual. 

6:33 PM