The Cook Islands led New Zealand 16-12 midway through the first half last week, and Cameron Munster expects another demanding contest on Saturday night in Townsville.
Munster said the Kangaroos must lift after their 36-22 win over Fiji, adding, "We know we are a whole heap better."
The 31-year-old will play at five-eighth against the Cook Islands as he looks to finish an underwhelming season strongly.
"I have alluded to it, I know I haven't been up to my best and have been a bit scratchy but I am trying to do all the little things so I can," he said.
Despite winning two premierships, multiple State of Origin series and the 2022 World Cup, Munster says he remains motivated to test himself against younger players.
"I want to see if I have still got it with the younger boys," he said.
He pointed to Daly Cherry-Evans and Adam Reynolds as examples of players performing well into their 30s, and said his speed might fade before his competitive instincts.
Munster said Tom Dearden and Sam Walker both had strengths, praising Walker's creativity and Dearden's consistency and defence.
Australia coach Kevin Walters has not revealed which half combination he will use in the knockout stage, and Munster said, "I don't have a preference."
Australia's campaign reaches a semi-final in Sydney on November 8.