Australia learned about Chinese live-fire naval drills off the country’s coast that forced dozens of flights to be diverted via an alert from a commercial pilot, authorities said on Monday.

China’s Defense Ministry says that Australia made “unreasonable accusations” and deliberately hyped the situation after three planes headed to New Zealand changed course in midflight because of live-fire drills by the Chinese navy.

The Chinese are telling everyone the naval manoeuvres are not illegal, but it’s odd to hear Australia’s prime minister and defence minister parroting their words.

New Zealand raised fresh concerns Monday over nearby live-fire drills conducted by Chinese warships armed with “extremely capable” weapons, an unprecedented show of firepower last week that analysts say are part of Beijing’s ongoing plan to build a blue-water navy with global reach.

Aviation officials first found out about the Chinese live fire exercises through a Virgin pilot, with the activity causing the diversion of almost 50 flights.

China defence ministry spokesperson Wu Qian said on Sunday that Australian complaints over recent Chinese live-fire naval drills in international waters between Australia and New Zealand were "hyped up" and "inconsistent with the facts".

Good morning and welcome back, it’s Ainsley here with all the news you need to start your working week.Today’s must-reads:• China’s live-fire naval drills• Chalmers to press US for tariff exemption• PM eyes A$8.

Dozens of commercial flights were forced to change course when Chinese warships unexpectedly announced live-fire drills off eastern Australia last week, officials have told a government hearing. Curran said 49 commercial flights were forced to divert around the live firing zone once it became apparent the warning was legitimate.

Former Labor senator Stephen Conroy says China intends to try and “dominate” Australia’s region. A recent military drill conducted by the Chinese Navy has raised eyebrows in Australia. Although no international laws were broken,