Anthony Albanese says the passage of legislation for the safeguard mechanism is a national security issue because without it, Australia will not meet its emissions reduction targets and again be regarded as a climate change laggard.

In a national security speech to be delivered to the National Press Club on Wednesday, the Prime Minister will increase pressure on the Greens and other Senate crossbenchers to pass the legislation when parliament resumes in March, by arguing climate policy is an essential diplomatic tool.