Tim Cahill struck twice in seven first-half minutes to virtually settle the contest, before David Carney added further gloss to an impressive Socceroos display with a 30-yard screamer in stoppage time to make it 3-0.

The Republic were, however, not without their chances, most notably skipper Robbie Keane who was twice denied by a scrambling defence, but the hosts lacked a cutting edge to break down the visitors.

Trapattoni admitted that was a worrying trait less than a month from their key World Cup qualifier in Cyprus on September 5, but believes his side will put tonight's result behind them.

"It was a severe lesson for us, I am a little bit disappointed with the team," the 70-year-old Italian said.

"But I know this is not a normal this result, this situation can happen."

Referring to the block by Australia goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer to deny Keane in the first half he added: "In the first half Australia deserve to be winning, but also we had a great occasion with Robbie Keane.

"Maybe if we score this goal it could change the game or the result.

"But I think Australia is better than us and deserved this result."

The Republic sit second in their World Cup qualifying group, a point behind Italy having played a game more, to give them a real opportunity of qualifying for the finals.

And while Trapattoni admitted his side were not as good as the Socceroos, who have already booked their place in South Africa, he was enthused by his side's second-half display.

"The second half I think we could not score a goal but we had good direction," he added.

"That is what I liked this evening and we had many opportunities."

Despite the defeat Trapattoni believes his team can bounce back against Cyprus.

Asked if he thought the players would suffer a psychological blow from tonight's result, he said: "No. In dressing room the players heads are a little but down, but I comforted them because after three or four weeks, when they have played in their leagues they will be better."