The federal government says it will consider backing Kevin Rudd for a top United Nations job.
But Foreign Minister Julie Bishop says the former Labor leader has yet to nominate to replace UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon when his term expires at the end of this year.
"Should Kevin Rudd nominate, then of course the Australian government would consider what sort of support he would require," she told reporters in New York.
"But Kevin Rudd has not nominated."
As part of the process, each UN member state presents their candidates to the president of the general assembly and security council.
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 Rudd appears to comfortably fit the selection criteria for the job, which requires candidates with proven leadership and managerial abilities, experience in international relations and diplomacy.
However, the UN is making a strong push for female nominees, with a December call-out encouraging member states to present women for the position.
So far, three high-profile candidates have put their hat in the ring including former Macedonian foreign minister Srgjan Kerim, Croatian foreign minister Vesna Pusic and Montenegro deputy prime minister Igor Luksic.
