An Australian mercenary has been killed in clashes in Yemen, alongside six Colombian troops.

Media reports have named the Australian commander as Philip Stitman or Streetman.

It's believed he was employed as a foreign mercenary by the United Arab Emirates to lead Colombian troops against the Houthis and allied army units in the country's south.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is trying to confirm the reported death, but said it could take some time because of the security situation in Yemen.

Australia doesn't have an embassy in Yemen.