The Australian Greens have welcomed Malcolm Turnbull's departure from the divisive and aggressive language of Tony Abbott, calling on the new Prime Minister to match his words with his actions.

"I agree with the Prime Minister that as political leaders we must continue to champion multiculturalism and unite the community against this threat that feeds on division and fear," said Greens Leader Richard Di Natale.

"The change of rhetoric is welcome but it's important that the decisions of the Prime Minister reflect his words.

Greens Leader Christine Milne says it's about time federal funds started flowing for deradicalisation programs in Australian communities.

"It has been almost eight months since Australians were first sent off to another unwinnable war in the Middle East, but only now is the Abbott government starting to act on countering violent extremism at home," said Senator Milne.

Australian Greens Leader Christine Milne says it's time the Abbott government used the money it has set aside for deradicalisation programs.

"It's easy to see what programs they've defunded, but not one cabinet minister can point to a program working right now to help communities deradicalise young people," said Senator Milne.

"It is time the Prime Minister stopped just pushing the terror button and actually got out there and started to work in prisons, in schools, and in communities to make sure that we counter the messages coming from the jihadists.

The Greens say Prime Minister Tony Abbott is again desperately trying to distract from his failing government, by embedding himself in an agenda of fear and anxiety, while completely ignoring the need to bring Australians together.

"Tony Abbott is again pressing the terror button in order to shore up his own position. It won't make us safer," Greens Leader Christine Milne said.

"Real leadership will bring people together, not divide them.

"An effort to build our community, rather than to implement divisive new laws, is what's required.

The Australian Greens will today launch a plan for energy and water efficiency upgrades to social housing that will improve the lives of one million Australians.

Greens housing spokesperson Senator Scott Ludlam said ‘Repowering Social Housing' will bring down the cost of living for those who need it most.

"The Greens' plan will put solar panels on the roof of every social housing home, will cut power bills for those who need it most, and will improve quality of life for the one million Australians living in social housing," said Senator Ludlam.