An unbeaten century from Shaun Marsh has seen Australia finish on 297-4 on day one of the first Test against South Africa at Centurion.
The tourists lost the toss and were put into bat before going on to make 83-3 during an unsteady morning session.
David Warner (12) was the first to be dismissed when he was bowled by Dale Steyn, while Chris Rogers (4) and debutant Alex Doolan (27) were sent back to the pavilion by Morne Morkel and Ryan McLaren respectively.
Steyn claimed another victim seven overs into the afternoon session as Michael Clarke was caught behind by Vernon Philander for 23.
However, Marsh and Steve Smith fought hard at the crease to guide the Aussies to a modest score of 176-4 at tea.
The duo then continued to torment the South African bowlers in the final session as the visitors managed to get a hold on the match.
Marsh finished with an impressive knock of 122 not out, while Smith went on to post an unbeaten score of 91.