Former NSW Labor premier Kristina Keneally is set to be sworn in to federal parliament as a new ALP senator.

Ms Keneally, who was unsuccessful in her bid to win the lower house seat of Bennelong in a December by-election, will replace Sam Dastyari on Thursday.

Mr Dastyari was forced to quit parliament over his controversial dealings with Chinese donors.

Ms Keneally said she is keen to champion indigenous rights, as well as better funding for research into pregnancy loss and stillbirth.