In a speech to a leadership forum in London on Wednesday, Mr Ciobo said the effects of Brexit would be felt in Australia and argued the need for a free trade agreement between the two nations.

"There is no doubt that any shift in the tectonic plates of British economic activity will flow on to influence Australia in very real ways," Mr Ciobo told Lancaster House.

"My message today is loud and clear: when Britain is ready, Australia is keen."

In a speech that described Brexit as "a bit of a headache," Mr Ciobo said it also presented an opportunity for Australia and the UK.

"As Britain steps forward into this next stage, I can assure you that Australia stands ready, our ambitions set high," he said.

"We look forward to the next regeneration of the British vision, and we look forward to continuing as the strongest of economic partners in the years ahead."

Mr Ciobo pointed to Australia's renewable energy sector as one pillar in what could support a "truly modern trading relationship".

"Australia stands ready to power the world's coming new energy revolution," he said.

"We welcome the support of London, one of the centres of mining finance, to bring it to fruition."

Mr Ciobo said Australia hoped to see the UK and Europe settle on a "top quality trade agreement".

"Settling for anything less than that would send an entirely wrong message out to an international trading framework that is already vulnerable to attack."

Australian Associated Press