Britain's The Guardian newspaper to launch online edition down under

Britain's The Guardian newspaper will launch a new online edition in Australia, where the print media is struggling with the changing digital landscape, and is also hoping to expand reach in Asia.

The Guardian, announcing the expansion of its global reach, said deputy editor Katharine Viner would be relocating to Australia to launch the operation later this year.

"We already have a large number of Australian readers who tell us they want more of our on-the-ground reporting, lively commentary and groundbreaking open journalism," Viner said.

"We will build a small Australian team to cover the issues that really matter to the nation and connect our Australian readers to The Guardian's global network of correspondents and commentators."

Alan Rusbridger, editor-in-chief of Guardian News & Media, said the Australian edition was "a natural next step".

"Our Australian digital edition will not only offer our unique take on Australia, a significant nation both regionally and globally, but will also serve as a base for reporting on, and engaging with, people across Asia," he said.