Bindi Irwin's dancing tribute to her dad

Bindi Irwin performs on Dancing With The Stars. Photo / Getty Images

Bindi Irwin has paid tribute to her father by performing a routine to the song Crocodile Rock on Dancing WIth the Stars.

Bindi and her dance partner Derek Hough performed a jive on the opening episode of the US version of Dancing With the Stars with the pair starting the routine wearing Steve Irwin's iconic safari uniform.

Bindi later ripped the uniform off to reveal a sparkling green dress.

Bindi's conservationist dad Steve died in 2006 after being pierced in the chest by a stingray barb while filming an underwater documentary and 17-year-old Bindi admitted her family are still struggling to cope while continuing his work.

Bindi Irwin performs on Dancing With The Stars. Photo / Getty Images

She told Us Weekly: "I'm trying to carry on my dad's legacy, and it is tough. I think that people always say when people pass away that time heals all wounds. And that's probably the biggest lie, it's not true. I think we all need to remember that it is always still tough and it's like losing a piece of your heart.

"But even though the sun will never shine as brightly, it will shine again. And that's a part of life, and it's why I wanted to be here and do this, because we're all faced with these challenges and tragedies. It's important to pick yourself up and to remember everything they lived and died for, and carry that message forward."

Bindi previously said of her father's passing that it makes you see that "none of us have forever" and to "live each day as if it's your last".

She said: "After losing dad, there was the idea that none of us have forever. It really affects you. It makes you want to live each day as if it's your last."

Hough was enthusiastic about her dancing progress on the talent show.

He said: "Honestly, from day one to now, people wouldn't even believe how far she's come. The transformation is miraculous, literally. We've got her in little training heels right now."

- Bang! Showbiz