Australian Olympic rower Sarah Tait has died, aged 33, after a three-year struggle with cancer.

Tait, a silver medallist at London 2012 in the women's pair, retired from professional rowing in 2014 after being diagnosed with the disease after the birth of her second child in March 2013.

"The Tait and Outhwaite families are sad to inform of the peaceful passing of Sarah Tait after a long and hard-fought battle with cancer," husband Bill said in a statement released by Rowing Australia (RA).

"Bill, Leila, Luca and the wider Tait and Outhwaite families continue to be grateful for the support and love that has been shared with Sarah and them through this difficult time.

"The families are enormously proud of the positive impact Sarah has made on so many throughout her life, and know she will be dearly missed."

Tait competed at three Olympics, in Athens, Beijing and London, the latter two as captain of the Australian women's rowing team, and at the time of her retirement recognised the London silver as the highlight of her career.

Australian rowing head coach Chris O'Brien said Tait was an inspiration to all in the sport.

"Sarah has been, and will continue to be, an inspiration to many Australian rowers. She was a strong role model to many young athletes but was particularly influential with our emerging female athletes," O'Brien said.

"Her spirit for rowing was paralleled with her dedication to her family and friends. Sarah was one of rowing's most successful and impressive female athletes who has left a permanent mark on our sport.

"I was personally inspired by Sarah's pursuit of success in sport and life. She will be sadly missed."

A memorial service for Tait is being planned by RA, with details to be made available at a later date.