Australia 55 Barbarians 7:Australia launched their international season in style with a thumping victory over the Barbarians in Sydney.

The Wallabies ran in eight tries with the Baa-Baas - playing Down Under for the first time - crossing just once through England's Iain Balshaw.

Early touchdowns from James Horwill, Drew Mitchell and Matt Giteau helped the Australians race into a 20-0 lead at Sydney Football Stadium.

Balshaw's try right on half-time - converted by All Black Luke McAlister - meant the touring side had a 20-7 deficit to make up at the break.

But they failed to add even a single point in the second half as tries from Stephen Moore, Ben Alexander, Mitchell, David Pocock and James O'Connor gave the scoreline a one-sided look.

The win was the perfect preparation for Robbie Deans' men as they prepare for Test matches against Italy and France.