Julia Gillard misses APEC after father dies

Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced to the APEC summit in Russia that Julia Gillard's father has died.

After a series of meetings in Vladivostok this morning, the Prime Minister failed to formally arrive with Mr Putin at the summit.

Ms Gillard had planned to stay for two days of the APEC summit and return for Australia on Sunday afternoon.

Trade Minister Craig Emerson, who was already participating in the summit, will be filling in for Ms Gillard.