Australian dancer expelled from China

Sydney, Australia - A SYDNEY Dance Company performer has been expelled from China amid claims he was carrying material published by the Falun Gong spiritual movement.

The 43-year-old dancer was detained by officials in Shanghai yesterday and ordered to leave China.

"We are aware that a 43-year-old Australian man from NSW was briefly detained by Chinese officials in Shanghai on 5 October," a Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) spokeswoman said.

"The man was alleged to have Falun Gong material in his possession and was asked to depart China on 5 October.

"The Australian Consulate General in Shanghai provided the man with consular assistance."

China regards Falun Gong as an evil cult and has banned the spiritual organisation.