Kirner a dauntless warrior: Shorten

Victoria's first female premier Joan Kirner was a trailblazer and dauntless warrior for social justice, federal Opposition Leader Bill Shorten says.

Ms Kirner, 76, died on Monday after battling oesophageal cancer.

Mr Shorten said she'll be remembered as a mentor and inspiration for countless women including Australia's first female prime minister Julia Gillard.

"From her father Keith, a fitter and turner, Joan took a deep faith in social justice and from her mother Beryl, a music teacher, she learned to believe women could do anything," he said.

She had a wicked sense of humour, hated pomposity and loved the Essendon AFL club, Mr Shorten said.

"We salute Joan Kirner's decades of selfless service, passionate advocacy and unconquerable resolve."

Labor frontbencher Penny Wong said her legacy will live on.

"Vale Joan Kirner. A woman of principle, courage and determination," Senator Wong tweeted.

NSW's first female premier Kristina Keneally said she was a strong leader in tough times and a champion for women.

"She showed me great kindness and encouragement, which I treasured," she tweeted.

Prime Minister Tony Abbott said Ms Kirner made her mark on Victoria and Australia.

"On behalf of the Commonwealth government, I extend our condolences to her family and friends," he said in a statement.

Victorian Labor Premier Daniel Andrews said the state was sad to farewell a great friend.

"She was our first female premier. Because of her work, she won't be the last," he tweeted.

Former Democrats leader Natasha Stott Despoja said Ms Kirner had to contend with ridiculous stereotypes.

"From the polka dot dress (that she never wore) to the fact that some male cartoonists could never get her likeness right as they were not used to female political leaders," she told AAP.

Ms Kirner had been supportive of the former senator's entry into politics.

"She showed that women in politics were multifaceted: that we could sing and dance and have a laugh," Ms Stott Despoja said.