PM among world leaders to address UN General Assembly

Tony Abbott has used his first address to the United Nations General Assembly in New York as Prime Minister to focus on economic growth and Australia's role in global affairs.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani addresses the 69th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Tony Abbott has used his first address to the United Nations General Assembly in New York as Prime Minister to focus on economic growth and Australia's role in global affairs.

The need to highlight economic growth comes ahead of Australia's chairing of the G20 summit in November.

Mr Abbott's speech comes a day after he addressed the UN Security Council on the terrorist threat posed by the Islamic State group's foreign fighters.

Aaron Thomas is in New York following events at the UN, and he's speaking with Kristina Kukolja.

(Click on the audio tab above to hear the full interview)