As the party's review panel puts its final touches to the report, Labor's finance spokeswoman conceded looking at the election outcome in the rear-view mirror was a "pretty brutal business".

But from her point of view, Mr Shorten shouldn't be condemned for his efforts.

"I make my decisions around people in politics based on my dealings with them," Senator Gallagher told Sky News on Sunday.

"I've never seen anyone work harder, a genuine guy, outlined a vision for Australia and I think he would have been a good prime minister."

The review is being overseen by former South Australia premier Jay Weatherill and former Labor cabinet minister Craig Emerson.

A News Corp article on Saturday said Mr Shorten had urged the party to help him soften his image during the election campaign but was rebuffed by his colleagues.

It also claimed the review will show it was dogged by poor organisation, confusing messages, unpopular policies and defective advertising, as well as Shorten's unpopularity.

Australian Associated Press