Bushfires have spread across two states of Australia burning over a million hectares of land. Australian authorities have placed 'catastrophic' threat levels in place across Queensland and New South Wales.

Around 150 fires have fed off tinder-dry conditions coupled with high temperatures, unpredictable winds and lightning. Over 200 homes have been destroyed and bushfires approached within 15km of Sydney's city centre. A Firefighting aeroplane dropped pink fire retardant to halt the spread to protect the suburbs of Sydney.

Over 3000 firefighters are tackling bushfires, assisted by personnel from New Zealand and the Australian Defence Force. Crews have been battling a front spanning 1,000km along the north coast of New South Wales. Police are also investigating several reports suggesting some of the fires were started deliberately.

Communities have been urged to stay away from bushland in areas susceptible to more fires, and more than 600 schools have closed. The weather forecast has predicted further hot weather and little to no rain.