Bishop calls for India and China to do more to tackle climate change

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop has reaffirmed the government's reluctance to commit to an emissions agreement unless key trade partners come to the party.

Trade Minister Andrew Robb, who is accompanying Ms Bishop at UN climate talks in Lima, reportedly told business leaders Australia won't sign an agreement unless trade competitors pull their weight.

Ms Bishop says it's vital any commitment also allows for sustainable economic growth.

"Australia should not and will not go this alone," she told ABC radio from Lima.

It comes after the government backflipped on its stance not to commit funds to the global green climate fund, pledging $200 million to help developed nations curb emissions.

The money will come from the already-plundered foreign aid budget, a move Ms Bishop claims is appropriate because it will be targeted at Australia's neighbours.

"This is targeted, sensible, logical funding," she said.

Prime Minister Tony Abbott has previously labelled the fund an international "Bob Brown bank" - after the former Greens leader - and said it would be impossible for his government to support it.

But in an about-face on Wednesday, he said it was fair and reasonable to pledge a contribution.