We're generous on refugees, Abbott insists

Tony Abbott has promised a strong and generous response to the Syrian refugee crisis, saying that's the Australian way.

But the prime minister says Australia's offer to accept more Syrians will not involve lifting its overall humanitarian refugee intake.

"We have always been a country that shoulders its responsibilities, that pulls its weight globally," he told reporters in Canberra while flagging more details of a "balanced approach" to be revealed in the next few days.

Labor MP Matt Thistlethwaite said it was sad Mr Abbott had only taken action after prodding from Opposition Leader Bill Shorten, NSW Premier Mike Baird and government backbencher Craig Laundy.