South Africa have suffered their third successive Tri-Nations defeat at hands of Australia in Durban.
The hosts held a 6-3 half-time lead following penalties from Francois Steyn and Butch James. James O'Connor kicked Australia's only points of the opening 40 minutes.
A try from Pat McCabe put the Wallabies in front for the first time in the game shortly after the restart, but a second penalty from James edged the Boks back in front.
However, O'Connor converted two more penalties to ensure that Australia won the contest by five points.
Ahead of the Rugby World Cup next month, South Africa are back in action on Saturday, August 20 when they take on New Zealand in another Tri-Nations match.