Allrounder Jess Jonassen was the hero as Australia overcame a major scare to beat New Zealand by five runs in Friday's ODI women's clash at the WACA Ground.
Chasing 242 for victory, NZ were on track for victory after cruising to 4-188, needing 54 runs from the final 53 balls.
But spinner Jonassen put the brakes on NZ's victory bid, finishing with figures of 4-43 off 10 overs to help drag her side over the line.
Jonassen snared the key scalps of Katie Perkins (48) and Amy Satterthwaite (92) as NZ finished at 9-236.
NZ needed seven runs off the final two balls for victory, but couldn't get the job done.
The result gave Australia a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
NZ haven't won the Rose Bowl Trophy since 1999, and that drought will extend to a 20th year if they can't beat Australia in Adelaide on Sunday.
Jonassen couldn't squeeze her way into Australia's XI for their recent T20 World Cup triumph.
But she was thrilled to be back on the field for the ODI series.
"My main goal going into today was to enjoy every moment," Jonassen said.
"It was just nice to take a few wickets and get a few runs and contribute to a win."
Australia's total of 241 was their lowest ODI score since 2016.
Rachael Haynes, who was promoted to open in the absence of Nicole Bolton, made 67 off 80 balls on a green-topped deck.
But the rest of Australia's high-profile top and middle order failed to fire.
Meg Lanning (six), Alyssa Healy (four), Ellyse Perry (six), and Beth Mooney (13) all went cheaply as Australia slumped to 5-125 in the 29th over.
Lanning was dismissed after Satterthwaite pulled off a remarkable one-handed catch at first slip.
Solid knocks from Ashleigh Gardner (34 off 36 balls) and Jonassen (36 off 32) ensured the home side reached a competitive total.
Star Kiwi allrounder Sophie Devine finished with 3-32 from her 10 overs, while right-arm quick Lea Tahuhu (1-36) and Rosemary Mair (2-35) set the tone early.
Australian speedster Nicola Carey was ruled out of the match with a back injury, but hopes to play in Adelaide.
