Scott Fardy has claimed that competition for places is key for Australia as they prepare for Saturday's World Cup clash with England at Twickenham.

Australia cruised to wins over Uruguay and Fiji in their opening two games, with Michael Cheika using them as an opportunity to test the depth of his squad.

Ahead of the crucial Pool A meeting with England, Fardy believes that the desperation to be first-choice is the motivation for every player.

"It drives us all," the Wallabies flanker told reporters. "Sean McMahon the other day is an example of a guy who's probably one of the best back-rowers but sitting behind two great sevens, so it's hard for him to crack.

"Every time he plays he gets man of the match and he was excellent against Uruguay.

"So that back-row depth is driving us at training and we help each other out with the squad mentality, which has been great."

Australia will finish their Pool A campaign against Wales at Twickenham next Saturday.