MPs Sudmalis, Macklin heading to UN

Retiring federal MPs Ann Sudmalis and Jenny Macklin will represent Australia on secondment to the United Nations, meaning both MPs will be away from parliament for the rest of this year's sittings.

Ms Sudmalis is set to quit federal parliament at the next election after blasting NSW Liberal Party members over bullying.

She will be joined in New York by former Labor government minister Ms Macklin, who is also retiring.

The bipartisan program will run from September to December.

"I am passionate about advocating for the rights of women and children in Australia and in developing nations," Ms Sudmalis said.

The MPs will give speeches and attend UN-related events, working alongside Australian diplomats.

The 73rd session of the UN General Assembly opened on Tuesday and the general debate, which is expected to be attended by US President Donald Trump, starts next week.

Last year's parliamentary delegation members were Liberal National Party MP Warren Entsch and Labor senator Gavin Marshall.

Ms Sudmalis said she would continue to represent her constituents in addition to taking on the role.