Canberra, Nov. 27 : Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd on Thursday described the attackers who planned the synchronised strikes across southern Mumbai as "cowards, absolute cowards and murderers", and warned that the number of Australian casualties from terrorist attacks in India might rise above the two people reported injured so far.

According to The Daily Telegraph, Rudd told Parliament that he had spoken to Australian High Commissioner to India John McCarthy to get an idea of the situation on ground in Mumbai.

He said officials were checking with local authorities and hotel owners to determine exactly how many Australians had been caught up in the incidents.

Rudd said he and other ministers had just attended a meeting of the national security committee of the cabinet and added that little was known about the Deccan Mujahedeen, the group claiming responsibility for the attacks.

"But whichever group has perpetrated this attack, they are cowards, absolute cowards and murderers," he stormed.

The attack on India''s stability, peace and democracy reminded the nation that international terrorism was far from defeated, Rudd added.

Rudd said Qantas had confirmed its flight to Mumbai on Friday and the airline had indicated it stood ready to help with any evacuation of Australians from India.

Australian officials had been in contact with the families of those known to be injured and were providing consular assistance on the ground in Mumbai, he said.

Meanwhile, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade had reissued travel advice for India, warning that Australians should avoid travelling to Mumbai at this time.

Australia is offering India assistance with the counter-terrorism and forensic investigation through the Australian Federal Police plus any other relevant assistance.

"We stand ready to assist India in any way it needs right now," Rudd said.

"This latest attack on Indian peace, stability and democracy reminds us again of the need to remain forever vigilant. The unfolding event was of distress to all Australian families with members in India and Mumbai. I would join with all members in offering their thoughts and prayers at this time given the great uncertainties which continue," he said. (ANI)