Camps have been criticised by human rights groups

He said some asylum seekers had helped put out the fire, but others were refusing to negotiate.

"We're willing to talk to the detainees but our patience is not limitless. What occurs today will be crucial in the resolution of this issue," he said.

Authorities say hundreds of asylum seekers armed with home-made weapons have taken over part of the detention centre, in Australia's remote north-west.

It follows a riot by 100 inmates at the camp on Friday, where 28 detention centre staff were injured and a number of fires lit.

If this cannot be resolved peacefully then we will use other means to resolve it

Acting Immigration Minister Chris Ellison

The Australian Government says it will consider using force to bring to an end the current stand-off.

Three hundred detainees are armed with sharpened broomsticks and knives, according to the authorities. Extra security personnel have been drafted in and local police units are on stand-by.

Mr Ellison said a small number of weapons, including five knives and two meat cleavers, had been handed in.

"Part of the negotiations are that all weapons must be handed over and that furthermore those responsible for this unacceptable behaviour should also be handed over as well," he said.

The BBC's Phil Mercer says it is believed that those involved in the take-over have had applications for asylum rejected by the Australian Government and are awaiting deportation.

Mandatory detention

The authorities claim the ringleaders were also involved in the mass escape from the Woomera camp in South Australia last month, before being transferred to Curtin.

Australia detains anyone arriving without correct documentation

Refugee advocate Peter Wilke said he believes the Australian Government has failed to address a rising tide of discontent among the detainees.

"We see again that no serious steps have been taken to address whatever the specific concerns were in Curtin at this time," he said.

Australia automatically detains anyone arriving in the country without the proper documentation and claiming refugee status.

The government has defended the mandatory detention of asylum applicants on health and security grounds.

Earlier this month ministers announced that Curtin will be closed down as part of sweeping reforms of Australia's immigration facilities.