Australia have had a disappointing finish to their 2014 Volleyball world championships campaign, coming last in the group after being beaten by Italy in their final match.
The 25-23 25-14 21-25 25-18 result means Australia's first foray into the second round of a world championship has ended winless.
"Obviously it's disappointing to finish a tournament in this way," captain Aidan Zingel said after the match.
"But there's still so many positives we can take out of this event. It's not all a loss, we played some incredibly tough teams, and we've had a great year."
Australia had its chances early, fighting back from an 18-12 deficit to grab a 23-22 lead over the Italians, who came into the match with just the one win in the second round.
But the Volleyroos were unable to capitalise, losing 25-23.
The second set was one of the worst Australia played in Poland, full of unforced errors.
By contrast Australia played some of its best volleyball in the third set, as it has done for most of the tournament.
Coach Jon Uriarte kept star player Tom Edgar on the bench, with Paul Carroll taking his role as opposite.
The return to form was short lived however, with the Australians outplayed in the final set 25-18.
"Nobody likes to finish with a defeat, but we had a really important year in the short history of volleyball in Australia," Uriarte said.
"I think we are leaving world champs with the feeling we have the potential to match up to these teams next year. The picture for us is exciting."
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