Former UN rep named environment ambassador

Australia's former United Nations representative, Peter Woolcott, has been appointed the country's ambassador for the environment.

As the country's first ambassador for the environment since the previous coalition government, Mr Woolcott will promote Australia's national interests on global environment issues.

He will also take on the responsibilities of ambassador for climate change as the positions are combined into one portfolio.

He replaces outgoing climate change ambassador Justin Lee, who leaves the role this month.

"The appointment of an ambassador for the environment reflects the comprehensive Australian interests which are at stake across the spectrum of the international environmental agenda," Foreign Minister Julie Bishop said in a statement.