No decision has been taken to build a stand alone embassy, underlining uncertainty about the Government's long-term commitment to the war-torn country.

Under questioning by Queensland Senator Russell Trood, head of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Dennis Richardson, said security concerns had delayed a move out of the US Embassy compound.

Close personal protection for embassy staff was being provided by a private security contractor while Afghan security forces would be responsible for protecting the new mission.

In 2008 Australian diplomats in Kabul were relocated inside the US Embassy compound after Taliban insurgents attacked the luxury Serena Hotel where a temporary mission had been established.