Trade Minister Steve Ciobo says he isn't fazed by Iranian media reports slamming his "rude" remarks on its human rights record.
Mr Ciobo has taken a delegation of Australian companies to unlock opportunities in the emerging Persian market, in the first such mission for a trade minister since 2002.
A day before the visit he was asked by ABC radio about concerns over the country's rights record.
He said Australia would not turn its back on human rights and that position was clear and consistent.
Some Iranian media outlets have reported the comments under the headline "Australian minister's rude remarks before his visit to Iran".
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
Mr Ciobo said he wasn't worried about the local press reaction.
"I've been in politics long enough not to get too worked up with media reports," he told AAP in Tehran on Tuesday (local time).
"Iran has a mature media market - there are lots of voices in the media landscape."
The minister, who spent his first day signing a trio of agreements intended to foster greater trade cooperation between the two countries, says he was focused on the job and wouldn't get sidetracked.
"We've made important progress here."
Mr Ciobo also said broadening trade ties would help Iran on more than just an investment level.
"I'm a firm believer that economic engagement helps to drive peace and stability."
