Australia started strong in their final hit-out against New Zealand, but endured an ill-disciplined slide late in the game to allow the Kiwis to run away with victory 17-5 in Townsville on Sunday.
Their last scheduled game of the three-day tournament against an Oceania selection was called off to prevent the risk of injuries just weeks out from the Olympics
Australia coach Tim Walsh said despite the results there was plenty gained for the event.
“You’re never losing, you’re learning,” he told AAP.