The Wallabies will launch their latest attempt to end a painful 14-year drought and reclaim the Bledisloe Cup from the All Blacks when The Rugby Championship kicks off in Sydney on August 20.
The series was split 1-1 in 2015 but New Zealand retained the famous trophy by virtue of being the holders.
The Bledisloe reverts to a three-Test format in 2016, with the second game in Wellington on August 27 and the third in Auckland on October 22.
While the world champion All Blacks again start favourites, the retirement of six greats has given Australia a glimmer of hope.
Captain Richie McCaw, Dan Carter, Conrad Smith, Ma'a Nonu, Keven Mealamu and Tony Woodcock have all retired from Test rugby, with No 8 Kieran Read taking over as skipper and Beauden Barrett trusted with the No 10 jersey.
Wallabies coach Michael Cheika, meanwhile, has recalled his European-based stars in a bid to reignite his side following a dismal 3-0 loss to England in June.
Will Genia, Matt Giteau, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Drew Mitchell and Quade Cooper - who will play Super Rugby in Australia next season - were all included in TRC squad.