MANILA, Philippines?Australia has suspended its aid to Maguindanao and the rest of central Mindanao after the government imposed martial law in the province over the weekend to quell brewing unrest among supporters of the powerful Ampatuan clan.

?Staff working on Australian aid programs in central Mindanao have been advised to suspend program activities and cancel non-essential travel until the situation stabilizes,? the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said in an updated advisory posted on its website on Saturday.

The advisory also discouraged Australian citizens from traveling to mainland Mindanao, including the Zamboanga Peninsula and the Sulu archipelago.

Australia noted that while martial law was imposed in Maguindanao, a state of emergency remained in effect in Cotabato City and nearby Sultan Kudarat province.

It said that there was a continuing high threat of terrorist attacks and a high threat of kidnappings against Westerners in the Cotabato and Lanao provinces, Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat, and the cities of General Santos and Iligan.

?Attacks occurred throughout central Mindanao in late 2008 and again in mid-2009 against military and civilian targets. Further attacks cannot be ruled out. If you are in these areas you should consider leaving,? the advisory said

Australians were also urged to avoid large gatherings, demonstrations, protests, rallies and political events that may turn violent.

?You should avoid any large gatherings, demonstrations, protests, rallies or other public and political events as they may turn violent. Political violence will likely become more common in the lead-up to countrywide elections in May 2010. You should monitor the media for information about any protests and follow the advice of authorities,? the advisory said.

Australia also warned its citizens that clashes between Philippine security forces and insurgent groups, including the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, might occur without warning, particularly in central Mindanao.

It said that while a ceasefire and peace talks were announced, ?further intermittent clashes could occur.?