Foreign Minister Julie Bishop says she will be negotiating any climate treaty on behalf of the government.
Media reports have suggested Trade Minister Andrew Robb is being sent to the United Nations climate talks in Lima, Peru, to shadow Ms Bishop.
The reports suggested Mr Robb, who has in the past argued for more moderate action on climate change, was being sent to ensure the foreign minister does not over-commit Australia on climate policy.
Ms Bishop told reporters in Melbourne on Thursday she had responsibility for international treaties including climate change and the prime minister had asked her to attend the summit.
"It's my responsibility," she said.
"Andrew Robb is the trade and investment minister who was going to be in South America in any event."
The UN summit had implications for the Australian economy and it was appropriate that Mr Robb attend, Ms Bishop said.
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