Tom Dearden says Kevin Walters' confidence is a model for the Kangaroos ahead of Sunday's World Cup final against New Zealand at Suncorp Stadium.
Dearden said Walters brings the team's history into camp and praised his connection with the players: "Everyone loves playing for Kevvie."
Walters, who coached Australia to last year's 3-0 Ashes series victory, said preparing the squad was his immediate priority.
Asked if Sunday's match would be his last in charge, Walters replied, "We'll worry about that after the game. We'll have a chat about that," he said.
He added, "My big focus is on getting these guys ready to play, and I feel like they're ready to go."
Walters is keen to continue as Australia coach, with talks with ARLC chairman Peter V'landys expected after the final.
AAP understands V'landys has been happy with Walters, who signed a two-year extension earlier this year through the end of 2028.
Walters is due to join Super League club St Helens as head coach one week after the final.
The ARLC has in recent years prevented NRL club coaches from coaching representative teams, but St Helens is not an NRL club.
Walters was part of Australia's 1992 World Cup-winning team, and Dearden said his stories and passion help unite the current squad.