Australia sending evacuation flights to pick up those stranded in New Caledonia

The federal government says it has received clearance to send two planes to New Caledonia to pick up stranded Australians.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the government was contacting Australians in the Pacific territory and that priority would be given based on need.

About 300 Australians have registered for assistance after riots shut down New Caledonia's international airport.