Prime Minister Julia Gillard says she respects the church and other religious groups in the wake of comments from a Catholic archbishop suggesting Christians might not vote for her.

Perth Archbishop Barry Hickey said Ms Gillard's atheism could influence Christian voters not to vote Labor at the election on August 21.

"While there is no indication that the present Prime Minister will undermine the special privileges that churches enjoy, some wonder what the future will bring," Archbishop Hickey told The West Australian.

"Many Christians are concerned that someone who does not believe in God may not endorse the Christian traditions of respect for human life, for the sanctity of marriage and the independence of churches, church schools and church social welfare agencies."