New Zealand's 34-20 win over Australia in the 2008 World Cup final, inspired by Benji Marshall, remains one of the tournament's major upsets.
The rivals will meet again in Brisbane next Sunday after Australia beat Samoa 44-12 in the semi-final at Allianz Stadium.
The decider will also revisit the 2013 and 2000 finals, and their Round 1 clash in Sydney.
Australia led 26-2 at halftime before completing its sixth Test victory over Samoa in six meetings, in front of 41,259 fans.
Reece Walsh scored three tries, while Tom Dearden and Cameron Munster helped direct Australia's attack.
Stephen Crichton opened the scoring with a fifth-minute penalty, but Australia took control with five first-half tries.
Crichton scored again after the break, then Walsh responded three minutes later to extend Australia's lead.
Izack Tago added Samoa's third try, but Walsh crossed once more for Australia after a team move involving Tom Trbojevic, Dearden and Munster.
Jack Bostock scored Australia's final try, his seventh of the tournament, to seal the result.
Australia and New Zealand will also meet in the women's World Cup final next Sunday.