** Australian energy stocks .AXEJ rise as much as 3.6%, their highest level since early April 2024

** Oil prices settled higher overnight and climbed further in extended trade after Iran attacked several energy facilities across the Middle East O/R

** Shares of retail convenience and fuel network operator Viva Energy VEA.AX rise as much as 12.8%, to emerge as the biggest gainers in the broader .AXJO benchmark index

** Shares of oil and gas firm Woodside Energy WDS.AX up 4.7%, while peer Santos STO.AX adds 2.8%

** Sub-index has risen 29.5% this year, including session moves

(Reporting by Roshan Thomas in Bengaluru)

((Roshan.Thomas@thomsonreuters.com;))