A lake on the outskirts in southern Australia has turned a shade of pink because of a strange natural phenomenon.

Salt lakes in Westgate Park, Melbourne, change colour every year with the season - caused by a combination of very high salt levels in the water, high temperatures, sunlight and a lack of rainfall.

According to Parks Victoria, algae growing in the salt crust at the bottom of the lake produces the red pigment, known as beta carotene, as part of its photosynthesis process.

The phenomenon is exacerbated because of the extremely high levels of salt in the water.

The park authorities recommend that people do not to come into contact with the water.