Canberra is close to an agreement with Beijing that would allow Australian suppliers to ship five trial canola cargoes to China, sources familiar with the matter said, a move towards ending a years-long freeze in the trade.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has kicked off a visit to China meant to shore up relations between the two countries

Major miner BHP said it is too costly for Australia to build a "green iron" industry, even after the country and China agreed this week to jointly work to decarbonise the steel supply chain, responsible for nearly a tenth of global emissions.

Australia camera crews were pushed out of the room by Chinese security guards prior to the conclusion of remarks between Anthony Albanese and Chinese President Xi Jinping, just an hour or so after an Australian media bus was intercepted by Chinese security.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been serenaded with warmth, reverence and classic Australian rock music in Beijing, but critics have warned the tune is off key.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Australia values its relationship with China and will approach it in a “calm and consistent” manner, during opening remarks at a meeting with President Xi Jinping.