Before the Australian water polo goalkeeper left for Beijing, a gathering was held at her parents' home for family and friends.

But McCormack says a new venue will need to be found for the homecoming celebrations.

"I had a barbecue before I left just to thank everyone and I said to them 'if I win a medal, we'll party it up big time when I get home', so I guess that's on the cards," McCormack said.

"(But) I don't know if it will be a barbecue at our house. It might have to be somewhere else because I don't know if we'll fit everyone."

"Everyone keeps saying, 'I can't wait to see the medal and I can't wait to see you' - it'll be good."

The 25 year-old has been overwhelmed with support after her team's drama-filled penalty shoot-out win against Hungary on Thursday.

"I got out of the pool and I had 43 text messages," McCormack said. "I've heard from anyone and everyone - people I haven't spoken to in so long wishing me all the best and congratulations."

After a party for the team and supporters on Thursday night, McCormack is now looking forward to spending some time with her parents, Ron and Debbie, and brother Jake, who made the trip to China.

"I'm looking forward to getting out and relaxing. I haven't been out of the athletes' village apart from to go to our competitions," she said.

She is also planning to attend some of the other Olympic events, including the synchronised swimming with former Australian cricket captain Steve Waugh, who is acting as mentor and motivator for the Australian Olympians.

"He's been absolutely phenomenal," she said of Waugh's involvement with the team.

"I've never met a better bloke in my life; he is just so down to earth. He's so happy to let you pick his brain and ask him any questions."