Former PM Malcolm Turnbull makes United Nations appearance

Former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has stepped back into public life by attending an event at the United Nations in New York.

Mr Turnbull, who has been living just blocks away from UN headquarters in Manhattan after last month's leadership spill, attended the launch of a tobacco-free finance pledge.

As prime minister, Mr Turnbull was one of the driving forces behind the pledge, which is designed to encourage companies and governments to cut financial ties with tobacco.

Australia's Tobacco Free Portfolios, headed by oncologist Dr Bronwyn King, started the initiative.

The annual UN general assembly, drawing leaders from around the world including US President Donald Trump, is under way.

Marise Payne, elevated to Foreign Affairs Minister after last month's leadership battle, is representing Australia at the UNGA.