United States President Barack Obama is delaying his trip to Australia and Indonesia to concentrate on the passage of his healthcare legislation which he has made the centrepiece of his first term.

The postponement to mid-year means President Obama's family is likely to come with him on what will then be a more relaxed visit.

He had already delayed his departure by three days until Sunday morning, leaving him time for only a 24 hour whistlestop in Canberra.

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd said the President called him early this morning to tell him about the delay.

The White House says it is now clear that a House of Representatives vote on the health care reform bill could not now take place until Sunday afternoon at the earliest.

President Obama had also been due to visit the US Pacific territory of Guam on the trip.