President Obama said it would open markets, protect workers and the environment, and advance American leadership in Asia.

"With the Trans-Pacific Partnership, China doesn't set the rules in that region, we do," he told Congress. "You want to show our strength in this century? Approve this agreement. Give us the tools to enforce it."

Speaking to journalists in Canberra after Mr Obama's speech, Ambassador John Berry said he knew Mr Turnbull would be visiting Capitol Hill while he was in Washington and he hoped he would be carrying a message to Congress.

"Australia is one of the major investors in the United States," he said. "This is a two-way street. We both benefit, we both grow, we both gain."

Asked whether members of the Congress not swayed by their President could be brought across the line by a message from the Australian Prime Minister, he replied: "Absolutely. Members of Congress, when the Prime Minister says something about this, they will hear it loud and clear and they will take Australia very seriously."