Drew Mitchell says poor defence has been the chief catalyst in Australia's recent demise, but they will improve against the Boks in Brisbane on Saturday.

The Wallabies have lost their last six Tests – against England and New Zealand – and the winger believes an improved defensive performance can get them back on track.

'We need to get better at the whole system of our defensive structure,' he explained. 'I guess sometimes it's highlighted a little bit more on the end of the line because it's easier to see.'

Mitchell was also quick to quash suggestions that the Wallabies outside backs, and in particular Dane Haylett-Petty, are the weak links in their defensive line. 

'Collectively, we [the team] have fallen short a little bit. It doesn't put all the weight on one or two blokes.

'Dane has been playing well and made some really good reads in defence. If South Africa target him, it's great because he'll bounce back and show what we all know that he's capable of.'

Photo: Cameron Spencen/Getty Images