Jailed Aussie writer showing 'profound courage': PM

A letter to Anthony Albanese from jailed pro-democracy blogger Yang Hengjun from his Chinese prison cell was a message of "profound courage", the prime minister says.

In a handwritten letter, Dr Yang made a fresh plea to Australian leaders to bring him home, while thanking the prime minister for his support.

"Dear Prime Minister Albanese, words are now failing me. Tears blur my vision. I can only use a silent voice to thank you and all the people who care for and love me," the letter written in January reads.

"I know you and the Australian government endeavour to do your utmost to bring me home for medical care and reunification with my family."

Dr Yang remains imprisoned in China after he was handed a two-year suspended death sentence in February 2024.

The Australian writer was found guilty of espionage charges, which he has always denied, and has been detained since 2019.

Serious concerns have been raised of the health of Dr Yang in custody.

The prime minister said the federal government was continuing to push for Dr Yang's release.

"It was a message of profound courage and resilience and hope despite his difficult circumstances, and we continue to advocate for Dr Yang's interests and wellbeing at every opportunity," he told reporters in Jakarta on Thursday.

"I have certainly asked our ambassador to convey that very directly to Dr Yang."

Dr Yang said he felt the support from home as he staggers through the "hardest and darkest chapter of my life".

"It has helped me to understand the value of words and deeds of a government of the people, by the people, for the people - to enable me to fully understand the true meaning of being an Australian citizen," the letter reads.

The jailed Australian said a letter sent to him by Foreign Minister Penny Wong had helped him maintain strength and courage.

He also thanked Australian diplomats and embassy staff in China for their persistent support of him.

"All of this solicitude and solace has helped me to bear what has been untold and unbearable suffering," Dr Yang wrote.

"I deeply love Australia. It is my beloved children's motherland.

"I cherish and defend its core values. This is something I've sought for in my life, it is bigger than my own life."

Dr Yang still faces the prospect of life behind bars at the end of his sentence.

His family claims he has been subjected to hundreds of instances of torture.