Six people have been killed in a stabbing incident in a mall in Sydney, Australia. 

Emergency services were called to Westfield Bondi Junction just before 4pm (7am Irish time). 

Six have been killed, while eight remain in hospital in critical condition, including one baby.

A man, believed to be the attack, was shot dead. Police said he was working alone.

One witness said they saw a woman lying on the ground before sheltering in a jewellery store. 

Another shopper reported hearing "gunshots" before the evacuation was ordered. 

There were numerous witnesses in the busy mall who said he saw the attacker wielding a knife "running and chasing people".

People led out of Westfield Shopping Centre, where multiple people were stabbed in Sydney, 13/04/2024. Image: AP Photo/Rick Rycroft

Another witness described the moment the knifeman was neutralised.

"If she did not shoot him, he would have kept going, he was on the rampage.

"She went over and was giving him CPR. He had a nice big blade on him. He looked like he was on a killing spree."

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said: "Tragically, multiple casualties have been reported and the first thoughts of all Australians are with those affected and their loved ones."

Mr Albanese thanked paramedics caring for the injured and "brave police and first responders" who attended the scene.

Taoiseach Simon Harris said he is "horrified by the attack in Sydney on innocent people, including children".

"I will reach out to [the Prime Minister] personally but for now the thoughts and prayers of everyone in Ireland are with our Australian friends," he said on X.