Prime Minster John Howard (right) was at Gregan's celebratory dinner

The 33-year-old, who is the most capped player in Test history, said the chance to lead his side at a fourth World Cup was his main remaining career goal.

"To get through to next year's World Cup, that'll do me. I still love being coached and challenged and I want to be there come next year," he said.

Gregan has come in for criticism after Australia's recent indifferent form.

He has won a record 126 caps and has also captained Australia on more occasions than anyone else, passing John Eales' previous record of 55 Tests in the 20-18 win over South Africa earlier this month.

But at a dinner to honour his double record-breaking achievement, he had a blunt message for those who have called for his retirement, saying: "My career isn't finished."