SYDNEY, Oct 13, 2011 (AFP) - US technology giant Apple on Thursday won a temporary ban on Samsung selling its Galaxy Tab 10.1 in Australia after launching legal action on the grounds that it copied Apple's top-selling iPad.

The Federal Court handed down its long-awaited judgement in Sydney but said the reasons for the decision would remain confidential until Friday.

"I am satisfied that it is appropriate to grant an interim injunction," said Justice Annabelle Bennett, adding that Apple established a prima facie case that patents about its touchscreen technology had been breached.

Lawyers from both sides were not available for comment.

The decision follows Apple winning its battle with the South Korean company in Germany earlier this month when a court ruled the Galaxy Tab 10.1 had copied the iPad, and banned it from sale in that country.

Samsung disputes the claims.

The two technology giants are also embroiled in a patent dispute over smartphones and tablet computers in the United States, with both sides filing infringement claims against the other in an escalating feud.

Legal action is also ongoing in South Korea.