Govt to impose additional Syrian sanctions

Australia has joined a growing number of countries calling for the resignation of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, saying it will impose additional sanctions against members of a regime involved in violent repression.

Acting Foreign Minister Craig Emerson said once in place, Australia's autonomous sanctions regime will impose travel and financial restrictions against 34 individuals and 13 entities.

He said reports indicated an estimated 2000 people had been killed since civil unrest in Syria began in March.

"The people of Syria must be allowed to engage in peaceful political activity and be given the chance to determine their own future," Dr Emerson said in a statement on Friday.

"Australia continues to call for the United Nations Security Council to refer Syria to the International Criminal Court for investigation of alleged atrocities against anti-government protesters."

Australia first proposed such a referral in June.

He said Australia was supporting the people of Syria through humanitarian relief and medical assistance delivered by the Red Cross.

"Australia has been deeply concerned about the human rights situation in Syria and the welfare of its people since the start of the violent repression of protesters in March," Dr Emerson said.