'Part of me': PM reflects on faith after Pope's death

Anthony Albanese has paid tribute to Pope Francis as 'a man of courage who showed true leadership'. (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)

Anthony Albanese has offered a rare public reflection on his own Catholic faith as he described the late Pope Francis as one of the church's most significant leaders.

The prime minister was due to campaign in Melbourne as pre-polling began on Tuesday, but he cancelled engagements out of respect for the late Pope.