A conference on public diplomacy has heard that Australia needs to do more to promote an international image that moves beyond narrow stereotypes.

Opposition senator Russell Trood says the Department of Foreign Affairs lacks a coherent strategy to influence how Australia's seen by the rest of the world.

He says investing more resources in public diplomacy would help Australia attract more investment, tourists and international students.

But the Department says projecting a positive image of Australia has always been part of its core business.

Listen here: http://www.radioaustralia.net.au/asiapac/stories/201106/s3237109.htm