In the wake of the devastating fires in Victoria, President Barack Obama has called Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd to offer US assistance and prayers for the victims.
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The President made the call about 1.10 pm Australian time), within minutes of finishing his first prime time news conference on the US economic crisis.
The brief statement from press secretary Robert Gibbs said President Obama called Prime Minister Rudd to discuss "the current status of the fires across Victoria, Australia."
"The President offered his prayers to the people of Australia and his condolences to the victims. The President asked if the US could provide assistance to the government and people of Australia to assist with the fire," Mr Gibbs said.
The White House was not able to elaborate on what sort of assistance was offered but in the past the US has made available fire fighting equipment such as the "Elvis" water-bombing helicopter and fire fighting units.
Australia has reciprocated by sending fire fighters to help with the recent wildfires in California.
