Fixtures (Group F):
How did they get to Germany: With a truly nail-biting penalty shoot-out victory against Uruguay after their two-legged play-off ended 1-1. Sweet revenge indeed for four years ago when they went out at the same stage.
Qualifying star: Mark Schwarzer. The Middlesbrough custodian was nearly taken off before penalties, but came to the party big time with two stunning spot-kick saves.
Manager: Russian-bound Dutch coach Guus Hiddink has waved his World Cup magic wand yet again. Taking over from Frank Farina in July, he cast a spell over the Socceroos and completed what he called "almost mission impossible" when he arrived in the job.
Captain: Mark Viduka. The big Middlesbrough hitman will be grateful his missed penalty did not cost his team dearly, but his experience and finishing ability will be a major factor in Germany.
World Cup pedigree: None really. Qualified in 1974, but endured a goal-less and pretty much pointless three games.
World Cup high: Think we saw it last November.
World Cup low: Play-off defeats to Iran and Uruguay in 1997 and 2001 respectively.
World Cup legend: The title is surely up for grabs in Germany.
Present star man: Harry Kewell. The Liverpool winger showed in the second leg when he came on and tormented the Uruguayans he is one Aussie player capable of truly world-class displays.
Strengths: Plenty of flair going forward and a host of options in the middle of the park.
Weaknesses: A telling lack of pace and genuine quality at the back will be Hiddink's main concern going into a major tournament.
Did you know: Everton midfielder Tim Cahill represented Samoa in an Under-20 tournament in 1994, when he was just 14-years-old.
World ranking: 42
Odds: 80/1
Local view: "The false dawns are over. Unlike in 1974, this time Australia's expensive team of European-based exiles will travel to a World Cup more hopefully." John Huxley, Sydney Morning Herald.
Our verdict: Under the meticulously brilliant Hiddink, they may never have a better chance to gate-crash football's showpiece and spring a few surprises.
Ranking and odds correct at 22 May. Odds supplied by William Hill.