Australia’s top diplomat is heading to the United Nations to emphasise the government’s commitment to climate change policies and preventing conflict in the Pacific.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Assistant Climate Change Minister Jenny McAllister will lead a delegation to the UN general assembly in New York from September 18 to 23.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is set to take centre stage but smaller, developing nations are also pushing to put poverty and inequality in the spotlight.

A two-day summit will focus on more action on ending extreme poverty and hunger as well as working toward universal secondary education.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the world was failing developing nations.

Senator Wong said Australia had a large stake in the success of the UN as it works with other countries to prevent military might from stripping smaller nations of their sovereignty.

“Australia is committed to reforms that benefit people everywhere and ensure no one is left behind,” she said.

Senator McAllister said global collaboration was key to ensuring a net-zero emissions future and provided economic opportunities for Australia.

“I look forward to promoting Australia’s constructive role on climate change at home, in the Pacific and beyond,” she said.

The foreign minister is due to deliver Australia’s national statement at the 78th general assembly session.

– AAP