Anthony Albanese insists Australia is contributing its fair share on defence spending as the Trump administration pressures allies to ramp up funding.

Ahead of a trip to New York that may result in the prime minister meeting with US President Donald Trump, the federal government has unveiled a $12 billion funding pledge to build the Henderson Defence Precinct in Perth.

"Australia has always pulled our weight," Mr Albanese said on Sunday.

"We pay our way, and we contribute to our alliance each and every day."

The "down payment" on the defence hub will help prepare Australia for its future nuclear-powered submarines as the Trump administration reviews the trilateral AUKUS deal and puts pressure on its allies to boost defence spending.

Defence Minister Richard Marles would not comment di

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