Abbott could derail Pacific forum, Labor

Labor has warned the Abbott government's failure on climate change action could derail the Pacific Islands Forum.

A number of small island states have signalled they may walk away from the regional group if Australia and New Zealand try to water down a forum statement on climate change.

"When it comes to climate change these Pacific nations are the canary in the coal mine and Tony Abbott cannot ignore their cries for help," opposition foreign affairs spokeswoman Tanya Plibersek said on Wednesday.