Australia and Southeast Asian countries have called for restraint in the South China Sea with China's activities in the area in mind.

Leaders from Australia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations adopted a joint declaration at their summit in Melbourne on Wednesday.

The statement said the leaders recognize "the benefits of having the South China Sea as a sea of peace, stability, and prosperity."

It added they "encourage all countries to avoid any unilateral actions that endanger peace, security and stability in the region."

On Tuesday, the Philippine government said Chinese government ships had fired water cannons at a Philippine supply vessel in the South China Sea, injuring four crew members.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told reporters after the summit that "Australia is concerned about any unsafe and destabilising behaviour" in the area.

He added, "It is dangerous and it creates risks of miscalculation which can then lead to escalation."

The Australian government has announced it will provide 64 million Australian dollars, or about 42 million US dollars, to support maritime security in Southeast Asia.