PM embarks on Chinese charm offensive

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has embarked on a charm offensive with the Chinese community in Sydney's south declaring Canberra is "absolutely committed" to a long-term constructive partnership with Beijing.

Speaking at a lunch event in Hurstville on Thursday, the prime minister stressed the importance of ties between the two countries, opening his speech with a "ni hao" that earned him a round of delighted laughter and applause.

"I can't stress this enough, China, as the most populous nation in our region and our largest trading partner, is important to Australia," Mr Morrison said.

"We welcome its remarkable success and we are committed, absolutely committed, to the long-term constructive partnership with China based on our shared values and mutual respect."

The Liberal leader promised that Australia would "always" welcome Chinese students, investors and business.

"This is such a great driver of jobs in our nation," the PM said.