Sam Kerr netted twice, one of them a scorcher, as Australia downed China 3-0 in Melbourne.

Kerr pleased to become Westfield Matildas leader

Westfield Matildas star Sam Kerr says shouldering more responsibility at international level has ignited her development into a world-class spearhead.

Kerr scored a stunning brace either side of Tameka Butt's deflected effort to seal a 3-0 victory over China PR on Wednesday in the first of the two-match series.

The Perth Glory forward has been part of the national team set-up for close to a decade and has relished the chance to take on a more senior role.

"I have grown up. I started in the Matildas when I was 15 and now I'm 24," Kerr told reporters.

"It's something I've been working on, being a consistent player, a consistent leader and being a true professional.

Sam Kerr
The Westfield Matildas celebrate Kerr's jaw-dropping second goal.

"It's not only been me, everyone has kind of stepped it up.

"I want to be someone my teammates can rely on."

Australia's triumph at AAMI Park was their sixth successive victory, one shy of the team's all-time record.

Kerr believes the recent success is due to an unprecedented level of talent in Australian football.

"We have the most depth I've ever seen in the Matildas," she said.

"And we have so many players right now at the best time in their career.

"I personally think [it's the most talented group we've had], but I think the older retired girls would have something to say about that!"