Foreign Minister Marise Payne has delivered another veiled swipe at China's human rights record, using the anniversary of a United Nations declaration to vow to continue to speak "honestly" and "consistently" on the issue.

Senator Payne used a statement marking International Human Rights Day to again challenge Beijing, saying she had instructed Australia's ambassadors and high commissioners to ensure engagement on human rights issues was a core part of the nation's bilateral relationships.

Foreign Minister Marise Payne, with Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Credit:AAP

In a clear reference to China's treatment of Australian citizen Yang Hengjun, a pro-democracy activist who has been detained in Beijing since January, Senator Payne vowed the government would continue to stand up for the rights of all Australians, including "due process and access to lawyers for our citizens detained abroad".

Dr Yang's legal team last week said conditions in the Chinese detention centre had deteriorated to the point where he had no family or social contact.