Pope Francis would like to visit Australia, Prime Minister Julia Gillard says.

Former governor-general Sir William Deane and Lady Dean represented Australia when Pope Francis was installed at a ceremony in Rome.

Ms Gillard told parliament on Wednesday the Pope had received Sir William, who'd asked if he would become the fourth Pope to visit Australia.

"Speaker, it is good to report that after this brief conversation Pope Francis said he does hope to visit Australia," Ms Gillard said.

"He expressed his warmest wishes to Australia and to its people."

Opposition Leader Tony Abbott said he wanted to echo the prime minister's words and thank the Deanes for representing Australia.