Opposition Leader Peter Dutton said China’s denial of the sonar incident was “propaganda and we shouldn’t abide it for a second”.

“It’s exactly what happens in relation to Japan, in relation to the Philippines, and in relation to other countries in the region,” Mr Dutton said. “The fact is that there is aggressive behaviour taking place and our country should call it out.”

China’s defence ministry denied carrying out any activities that might have affected Australian diving operations: “China kept a safe distance from the Australian ship,” a statement from its defence ministry said.

Defence Minister Richard Marles said the sonar was activated despite the Chinese ship receiving multiple warnings that the personnel were operating below the surface.