CANBERRA - Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and Governor-General Quentin Bryce on Tuesday sent their country's congratulations to Prince William and his wife Catherine on the birth of the baby boy.

The young royals' first child was born overnight Australian time.

The birth of a baby is an experience to celebrate and cherish, Governor-General Quentin Bryce said in a statement.

"On behalf of all Australians, I send heartfelt congratulations to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on this joyful occasion. We wish the new parents every happiness and send warm greetings of welcome to the little prince." She said.

And Kevin Rudd said it's a happy day for the nation's close friends in Britain and across the Commonwealth.

"On behalf of all Australians, Therese and I extend our warmest regards to the new parents, Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge," he said in a statement. ? ?

"We share in the joy of the Royal Family, particularly Prince Charles on the birth of his grandson and Queen Elizabeth II on the birth of her great-grandchild."