Australia were entered into the Asian Football Confederation in March 2005 because of the lack of opponents and fixtures in the OFC. Australia have qualified for two World Cups in their history in 1974 and 2006. They found it very hard in their first appearance and failed to score a goal.

Australia surprised everyone in the 2006 World Cup. In their first match they faced a tough Japan side and trailed 1 - 0 at half time but managed to win the match 3 - 1. They qualified from the group and had to face Italy. Australia gave the World Champions a tough match losing to a last minute penalty.