Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd said Tuesday he had written to Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao to offer expert help and express Australia's sympathy in the wake of an earthquake that left at least 10,000 people dead.

"I have written to Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao this morning expressing this and offering Australian assistance, including search and rescue capabilities of the states and territories of Australia, through Emergency Management Australia," he told the parliament.

"On behalf of all Australians I extend our sympathy to those affected by the earthquake in China," he said.

Rudd also said Australia stood ready to offer assistance to help with the aftermath of the disaster.

"This is being followed up directly with Chinese officials, Australia stands ready to offer assistance," he added.

Australia has offered search and rescue experts to help China with the 7.8-magnitude earthquake which hit the Sichuan province Monday afternoon. Canberra is also in discussions with Beijing about what humanitarian assistance Australia can provide.

(Xinhua News Agency May 14, 2008)