Not sending Australia's prime minster to a key Pacific Islands meeting is an insult and a strategic mistake, Labor says.
New prime minister Scott Morrison won't attend the Pacific Islands Forum in Nauru next month, with Foreign Minister Marise Payne going instead.
"For the prime minister not to attend the Pacific Islands Forum, it's an insult to our neighbours, but it's also a serious strategic mistake," deputy Labor leader Tanya Plibersek told reporters on Tuesday.
Ms Plibersek said the move wasn't good for Australia's national defence.
China has ramped up its spending in the Pacific, causing concern about its rising influence and debt levels among island nations.
Senator Payne will go to Nauru for her first international trip in her new role, after switching from Defence.
The government has also been criticised for not spending enough on foreign aid, which was cut significantly under the coalition.
Outgoing foreign minister Julie Bishop said foreign aid must be targeted, focused and affordable.
"It currently makes up 0.8 per cent of our national budget. I believe every dollar of foreign aid invested wisely and effectively and efficiently is of benefit to our nation," she told reporters.
