Mitchell Moses left with a calf injury soon after halftime, giving Australia coach Kevin Walters a fresh concern during the 24-22 Rugby League World Cup 2026 opener.
The Kangaroos beat New Zealand before 41,255 fans at Allianz Stadium, avoiding what would have been Australia's first home defeat in 11 years.
Jack Bostock marked his Australia debut with three tries, including the decisive score after leaping above New Zealand's Jamayne Isaako.
The sides were level 10-10 at halftime, and Kalyn Ponga gave the Kiwis hope with two second-half tries.
One came after Ponga stepped past Reece Walsh, but the Newcastle captain's night ended early when he left with a wrist injury with 10 minutes remaining.
His availability for the rest of the tournament is now uncertain.
Walsh answered with a solo try and a late score that brought Australia within reach of victory.
Playing his first game in two months, he also renewed the debate over whether Walters will choose him or James Tedesco at fullback.