Disappointment from our government at reports Fiji's interim regime has revoked broadcasting licences.

Australia's Foreign Minister Stephen Smith says authorities in Suva have made changes to broadcasting arrangements, effectively seizing all licences. Mr Smith says the action has been carried out by decree, which means no court or other agency can overturn it. Mr Smith says it is a very bad sign for international investment and freedom of speech in the Pacific nation.

Our Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully says the latest development is another disappointment. He says it needs to be seen as part of a picture of harassment of the media and suspension of free speech which has been going on for some time now.

Mr McCully says the Fijian government's explanation that it is trying to move the country into the digital age doesn't wash.

TV and radio stations in Fiji are broadcasting this weekend on a temporary basis while awaiting a directive from interim attorney-general and minister for communications, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. He is regarded as the government's second-most powerful figure after military commander and prime minister Frank Bainimarama.