Labor frontbencher Penny Wong has thrown her support behind Anthony Albanese for the ALP federal leadership.
Senator Wong told ABC radio Mr Albanese had the experience and runs on the board to lead Labor over fellow candidate Bill Shorten.
"He's had some tough portfolios which he's handled really well and he's also our best parliamentary performer," Senator Wong said on Tuesday,
In the Labor government Mr Albanese was deputy prime minister and a minister overseeing the infrastructure, transport, broadband, communications and digital economy portfolios.
Senator Wong added there was no stronger supporter of women's equality.
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"He's been an incredibly strong supporter of women getting into parliament and progressing their careers," she said.
"That really lifts his Labor values."
Senator Wong denied the new leader would be a lame duck if the membership of the party chose one candidate, and the caucus leaned towards the other.
"Progressive parties have to reform to thrive," she said.
"Making sure members of the Labor party have a vote for the leader is a great reform. It opens up the party, makes us more democratic and also engages the public in a different way."
Senator Wong said she would be standing again to be Labor Senate leader, but was unsure if she would retain the finance portfolio in opposition.
"That will be something I'll discuss with either Anthony or Bill, whoever is elected Labor leader, next month," she said.
