There will be high hopes that the Matildas, now under the stewardship of Ante Milicic, can make a deep run in the tournament having faltered at the quarter-final stage in the last three editions.
Italy, meanwhile, have qualified for their first tournament since a group stage exit in 1999.
Latest Odds
bet365 make Australia 4/7 (1.57) favourites to make a winning start in France. It's been far from an ideal preparation though, with a 5-3 loss to the USA followed up by a 3-0 reverse at the hands of the Netherlands.
Italy are 5/1 (6.0) to win their third consecutive match having beaten Switzerland and the Republic of Ireland in recent weeks. The draw trades at 14/5 (3.80).
Team News
Sam Kerr should spearhead the Australian attack. The 25-year-old has been prolific in both the NWSL and W-League. At 10/11 (1.91) to score anytime Kerr could be a worthwhile selection considering she has netted seven goals in her last 10 international appearances.
La Azzurre were impressive en route to qualification, keeping five clean sheets in eight games. However, it remains to be seen how they cope without Juventus defender Cecilia Salvai who is out through injury.
Preview
While Italy's defensive record was the backbone of their journey to France, Australia will prove a tougher test than most of their recent encounters.
The recent 5-3 defeat to world champions USA showed that Milicic's approach is likely to be an entertaining one for neutrals.
Italy boss Milena Bertolini strives for an attacking ethos too, an encouraging sign for those seeking an end-to-end affair.
Prediction and Tips
Backing goals looks the way to go in this Group C opener. Both teams to score is 8/11 (1.73) with bet365 as is both teams to score.
The best bet though, could be combining the two selections which pays 11/10 (2.10). This is a selection that has paid out in three of Italy's last four games and while the underdogs could make their mark, Australia's firepower could ultimately prove too hot to handle.
Odds correct at the time of publish. Please gamble responsibly.
Over 2.5 goals and both teams to score at 11/10 (2.10) for a 2pt stake with bet365
