A shooting has taken place outside the Australian embassy in Baghdad. Picture: Pool/Alex Ellinghausen

The government confirmed a shooting has taken place and the victim was a 34-year- old Australian security contractor working at the Australian Embassy in Baghdad.

Media reports are also emerging that a sniper targeted soldiers and officers in he al-Latifiyah area south of Baghdad.

The identity of the victim has not yet been confirmed.

Foreign Minister Julue Bishop confirmed the contractor was working for Unity Resources Group, which provides security services to the Australian Embassy.

In a statement Ms Bishop said the circumstances surrounding the shooting will be thoroughly investigated.

“The Government extends its condolences to the family of the Australian man over this tragic incident,” she said.

“All appropriate assistance is being provided to his family.”

Ms Bishop also said a high level of security is being maintained at the Embassy.

However the government was not providing any further comment at this stage.

More to come ...