PM given UN advice, but no mention of Rudd

The prime minister's department provided Malcolm Turnbull with advice on the race for a new United Nations secretary-general, but didn't rate the candidates.

Former prime minister Kevin Rudd has been critical of Mr Turnbull for not backing his candidacy for the role.

A Senate estimates hearing on Monday was told the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet prepared advice on the "process" of the UN election, but did not provide any comments on candidates.

Department deputy secretary Allan McKinnon said he was not present at any meetings between Mr Turnbull and Mr Rudd or aware of what had been said between the two.