Australia has announced that it is banning the video-sharing app TikTok on devices issued by government departments and agencies. Officials say they are removing the app, which is run by a Chinese firm, due to security concerns.

In a media release on Tuesday, Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus said he issued a mandatory direction after "receiving advice from intelligence and security agencies." He said, "The direction will come into effect as soon as practicable."

The European Union and countries including the United States and Britain have already banned TikTok over worries on possible information leaks.

In February, Australia decided to remove Chinese-made surveillance cameras from defense ministry facilities due to security concerns.