Eight children found knifed in Australia

Canberra: Eight children, aged between 18 months and 15 years, were found stabbed to death at a house in Australia's Cairns city Friday, a media report said.

According to the police, the bodies were found at Murray Street in the suburb of Manoora in Cairns, the Canberra Times reported.

Police were called to the house following reports of a woman lying with serious injuries.

The 34-year-old woman is receiving treatment for her injuries. She is in a stable condition, a police official said, adding they could not immediately establish the relationship between the woman and children.

Detectives have launched a search of the house and its backyard.

Cairns Detective Inspector Bruno Asnicar said the incident was "extremely distressing", however, he was unable to confirm the relationships between the victims.

Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott in a statement described the incident as "an unspeakable crime".

"All parents would feel a gut-wrenching sadness at what has happened," the statement said, adding: "These are trying days for our country. Tonight, there will be tears and prayers for these children."

Queensland Premier Campbell Newman said he was "saddened and shocked" by the tragedy, and that his thoughts were with the family and friends of the victims.

"I'm also aware of the impact this will have on the emergency service workers and police officers who responded to the scene, and I have asked the Acting Ministers to make sure those individuals are receiving the support they need," he added.

"Indeed, the whole Cairns community and the people of Queensland will feel the effects of this tragedy, particularly at a time of year when families come together."

"I ask that all Queenslanders reach out to those who may need support in coming days and do not hesitate to seek professional assistance if needed."

The Department of Communities are sending a team to Cairns to "deal with the human and social recovery".