West Australian Premier Colin Barnett says Gough Whitlam was a towering figure in Australian politics but that doesn't mean he was a great prime minister.
The Liberal leader said Mr Whitlam ran a chaotic government that overspent.
"He was not able to run a competent government - I don't think anybody could suggest that," Mr Barnett said.
"He ended up with a government in chaos.
"It was a very tumultuous time. It was a time of government spending a lot of money and I think there was a fair bit of waste.
"I don't think Gough should really be remembered as a great prime minister."
But he did have some kind words for the Labor leader, particularly for engaging with China and reforming education and health.
"He didn't lead his government well but he certainly painted a big new modern picture for Australia. For that he deserves his place in history," he said.
"He was physically and literally a towering figure in Australian politics.
"I think he changed our thinking and he modernised Australia but a lot of the things that he set out to do didn't really work."
WA opposition leader Mark McGowan said Mr Whitlam was a true visionary.
"His legacy includes, but is not limited to, the early recognition of Aboriginal land rights, establishing universal healthcare - or Medicare as we know it - and providing free higher education," Mr McGowan said.
"He was the first leader to recognise China and establish diplomatic relations with our largest trading partner.
"Gough Whitlam ended military conscription, withdrew troops from Vietnam, introduced divorce reform and outlawed restrictive trade practices, ensuring consumer protection."
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