200 'boat people' found headed for Aussie

CANBERRA - A boat containing almost 200 people has been intercepted near Christmas Island.

Federal Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O'Connor said the suspected illegal entry vessel was first spotted on Friday.

The Royal Australian Navy patrol boat HMAS Pirie picked up the vessel on Sunday, about 23 nautical miles north-west of Christmas Island.

Mr O'Connor said the interception showed border protection was working.

"The Australian Government is committed to strong border security arrangements and is determined to deal effectively and appropriately with people smugglers," he said.

The 194 people on the boat will be transferred to Christmas Island for health, security and identity checks.

It's the 15th boat carrying suspected asylum seekers to be intercepted this year.

Last week, authorities picked up a boat with 49 people aboard, south-east of Ashmore Reef.

- AAP