The NSW Premier says the tropical cyclone is acting like "a completely unwanted house guest" - arriving late and will stick around longer.

Tropical Cyclone Alfred has taken a sudden and unexpected turn, now heading directly towards densely populated areas in southeast Queensland and northeastern New South Wales. The cyclone, which had initially been tracking offshore,

Some residents are evacuating ahead of the cyclone, while others are sticking it out and preparing their homes for destructive winds and heavy rainfall. As they gear up for what's to come, there's a mix of emotions.