​Bindi Irwin's debut on the US version of Dancing With The Stars has earned her the moniker "wonder from Down Under" after an impressive jive in tribute to her late father.

The bubbly 17 year old finished on top of the leaderboard during Monday night's premiere after a flawless routine to none other than Elton John's Crocodile Rock.

Decked-out in the family's trademark zookeeper khakis, Irwin strutted her stuff before revealing a shimmering green dress underneath.

Advertisement

The young television presenter has starred in several conservation shows on US and Australian screens including Bindi: The Jungle Girl, Bindi's Bootcamp, and Steve Irwin's Wildlife Warriors.

Irwin was only eight when her father Steve Irwin was killed by a stingray in 2006, and has dedicated herself to carrying on his legacy in wildlife conservation.

Speaking to the judges after her dance, Irwin described her late father as her "hero".

"I think that the real reason I'm doing this is to make him proud, and everyone back at home in Australia proud," she said.

Irwin finished on top of the leaderboard after receiving an impressive score of eight from each judge, but is tied for lead spot with former Backstreet Boy Nick Carter.

She thanked her dancing partner Derek Hough on Instagram after their first routine, saying she was "grateful beyond words".

Hough praised Irwin after the premiere, writing: "She continuously reminds me of the magic in this life with her infectious genuine powerful energy".

Before being approached for the 21st season of Dancing With The Stars, Irwin revealed she had never worn heels before.

"They said, 'We're going to put you in these heels,' and I don't think they realized that I had never worn heels before so I stood up and instantly fell down," Irwin told Entertainment Tonight.

The Australian season finished earlier this month, with radio presenter Emma Freedman taking home the trophy.