HOSTS England defeated Australia yesterday 17-13 in their final pool game at the Under-20 world championship in Salford. 
In a frequently brutal encounter, Australia was unable to claim the bonus point victory required to qualify for the semi-finals.
Australia now join New Zealand, Wales and Scotland in the battle to finish fifth.
"We are disappointed that we could not get the required result against England and will once again have to face the battle for fifth," said Australia coach Adrian Thompson. "We started the match well but took the pressure off in parts of the match and England capitalised on those errors.
"I was impressed with the team's character to hang in there for the full 80 minutes but ultimately we need to be better at finishing our opposition off when we have the chance.
"We will dust ourselves off and get ready for an incredibly strong battle to finish fifth with New Zealand, Wales and Scotland." Australia will get the chance for revenge against Scotland - who they also lost to in pool play - in their next playoff match.England, South Africa, Argentina and Ireland are the semi-finalists.