Albanese said the incident had been brought to the attention of the US administration, but shied away from confirming whether he would personally hold discussions with Trump.

"We have already raised these issues with the US administration. We don't find it acceptable that it occurred, and we think that the role of the media is particularly important," he said at his first National Press Club since his re-election in May.

"Discussions I have with the president are discussions between myself and the president. That's the way that I deal with people; diplomatically, appropriately and with respect," he added.

The prime minister condemned the "horrific" attack, adding that footage showed police had clearly targeted Tomasi.