Labor's low vote reflects modern politics

Deputy opposition leader Tanya Plibersek has defended Labor's performance in the weekend federal election as the party recorded its second-lowest primary vote in 70 years.

While the ALP improved its first count vote from the 2013 poll - up nearly two per cent to 35.32 per cent - there are concerns it is stuck below a level that guarantees government.

"It reflects modern politics - we don't have two parties any more - we've got a plethora of choices out there," Ms Plibersek told ABC radio on Monday.

She praised the efforts of party volunteers and leader Bill Shorten that resulted in Labor picking up a dozen seats from the coalition and creating the possibility of a hung parliament.

"I think it's really a tribute to Bill's leadership and our united team that we've come so far in such a relatively short time."

Influential NSW senator Sam Dastyari says he'll be stunned if Mr Shorten doesn't continue as leader.

"I would be flabbergasted and shocked," he said.

"Bill Shorten should continue by acclamation. That's my opinion."

Under rules implemented in 2013, the Labor leadership spills automatically after an election loss.