Robinson (right) has picked Pat Sanderson (left) as his captain

England completely dominated the pack in the teams' last meeting but new coach John Connolly has changed things.

"Lots has been written about the demise of Australia but they've just been a bit unlucky," said Robinson.

"We expected they were going to bulk up the pack and I think they've done that in their front row they've selected."

England second rower Ben Kay admitted he knew nothing about potential new Aussie props Rodney Blake and Benn Robinson.

But he was sure the Wallabies would bounce back from Australian rugby's ignominy at Twickenham.

"The Australian pack aren't as bad as I think everyone makes out," he said after England arrived in Sydney.

"They have a good set of forwards and they are well coached. Everyone can have a bad day - they can turn it around."

Seven possible England players were unavailable for selection for the tour because of injury.

Other senior players like captain Martin Corry have been rested, with Pat Sanderson leading the side in his absence.

But Robinson said he was taking the tour seriously and results did matter.

"This is not a development squad, this is a squad that's coming here to perform and I've got every confidence in our ability to do that," Robinson said.

"I'm really pleased with our squad, I think that what you've got to look at is that players are in form at the end of the season. I think that was a key component for us."

Australia squad:
A Ashley-Cooper, A Baxter, R Blake, M Chisholm, S Cordingley, R Elsom, G Fairbanks, S Fava, A Freier, M Gerrard, G Gregan (captain), Daniel Heenan, G Holmes, A Kanaar, S Larkham, C Latham, T McIsaac, S Mortlock, S Norton-Knight, W Palu, J Paul, C Rathbone, B Robinson, M Rogers, N Sharpe, C Shepherd, G Shepherdson, G Smith, S Staniforth, L Tuqiri, J Valentine, D Vickerman, P Waugh.