Balfour is the European 200m breaststroke champion

The Australian holds the records over 100m and 200m and is hot favourite to take both titles in Melbourne.

But Balfour is adamant she is not intimidated by the swimmer behind whom she claimed silver and bronze at last year's Commonwealth Games.

"I don't feel daunted, I admire her," said Edinburgh's Balfour, 23.

"She is a fantastic athlete. I think it's good to have someone so good as a swimmer as she pushes everyone else.

Realistically you can say Leisel is likely to win and then there are three battling for the next places Kirsty Balfour

"I just have to keep focused on what I am doing and see where that gets me. I think she can get more world records."

Balfour, whose best 200m time is almost four seconds behind Jones, was realistic about the Australian's dominance although the Scot will be one of the leading challengers.

"Realistically you can say Leisel is likely to win and then there are three battling for the next places," said Balfour.

"I'm just doing my best and hope that is going to get me a medal and if it does that is great but if I do my very best and don't get a medal then so be it."

Balfour broke through in 2006, with success at the Commonwealth's in March before claiming the European title and silver over 100m.

She was also part of the winning British 4x100m medley relay squad before claiming the 200m short-course equivalent at the end of the year.

"I've got a lot of confidence going into the worlds," she said.

"I've had a lot of experience and now it is all about putting it together.

"It was really nice to have Scottish representation with the GB team. It was great but there is a bigger expectation now but it made me so proud."