Two Washington DC officers have been put on "administrative duties" after they were captured attacking an Australian reporter and cameraman on air.

Footage aired on Australian and US television showed Sunrise reporter Amelia Brace and her cameraman Tim Myers being struck by riot police during demonstrations in Washington DC on Monday

"As is consistent with our established practices and procedures, two US Park Police officers have been assigned to administrative duties, while an investigation takes place regarding the incident with the Australian Press," US Park Police acting chief Gregory T Monahan said in a statement posted to Twitter this morning.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison had asked the Australian embassy in Washington to investigate the attack and report back on how Australia should register its "strong concerns" with local authorities.

Yesterday morning, Australia's ambassador to the US, Arthur Sinodinos, said contact had been made with the reporters and they were receiving consular assistance.