Sydney hospital evacuated after threat

Threats to several Sydney hospitals that forced the evacuation of at least one are being investigated by police.

Patients, some in wheelchairs, were evacuated from the top five floors of Prince of Wales private hospital in Sydney's east about 3pm (local time) yesterday.

The Royal Prince Alfred, Royal North Shore and Longueville private hospital were also believed to be affected.

"Detectives from central metropolitan region are liaising with officers from the Department of Health to identify those responsible for the threats," police said.

The incident came just hours after NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione briefed state cabinet ministers on terrorist threats following the decision to raise the national alert level from medium to high.

Mr Scipione said last week police were focusing their efforts on protecting popular landmarks, such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and "soft targets" such as shopping centres.

NSW Premier Mike Baird stressed authorities were doing everything necessary to keep the state safe.

"Yes, there is an increased security threat that we've heard about," he told reporters.

"But everyone across NSW should be assured that we're taking every action possible to ensure their safety."

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