NT government welcomes Turnbull as PM

The Northern Territory's chief minister says Tony Abbott was a great leader but Malcolm Turnbull will lead the nation well.

During question time in NT Parliament on Tuesday, Adam Giles congratulated Mr Turnbull on becoming prime minister.

"I'm sure it's a great honour to be prime minister of this country ... I'm sure he will lead this nation well," he said.

He said Mr Abbott served Australia well.

"I found him to be a great leader, determined to do what's best in the nation, and I wish Tony and his family all the best for the future," Mr Giles said.

He said he was pleased to hear Mr Turnbull talk positively about the Australia-China free trade agreement, and was pushing to get northern Australia development on the agenda in order to create jobs and opportunities.