Praise for possible next US ambassador

Donald Trump could soon name America's top military commander in the Asia-Pacific as the next ambassador to Australia.

And Admiral Harry Harris would get a tick of approval from Foreign Minister Julie Bishop.

The commander of US Pacific Command is being considered by the administration for the position, according to the Washington Post.

"I would certainly welcome it but we haven't had any official confirmation," Ms Bishop told Sky News on Wednesday.

"He's a very capable, competent man who knows Australia well."

Admiral Harris is due to retire from his existing post early next year.