DHAKA: A 6.8 magnitude earthquake has struck in the Pacific Ocean near the Solomon Islands.

The quake hit at approximately 2.12pm AEST, though it it not clear if there is any damage, Skynews.com.au reported.

Geoscience Australia estimates there could be damage as far away as 81km from the quake's epicentre, which includes part of the island of New Georgia.

The Bureau of Meteorology has confirmed there is no tsunami threat to the Australian mainland.

BDST: 1228 HRS, AUG 10, 2015
RS