Australia are one step closer to defending their World Cup title, which they lifted two years ago in Spain.

The Sapphires were rarely troubled and their defence remains locked as they dominated in the clash. Shyla Heal topped scores with 22 points in less than 20 minutes with coach Shannon Seebohm able to spread minutes throughout the whole roster.

Australia meant business as they faced New Zealand. who were at their first U17 Women's World Cup. They strode out to an 18-2 start before New Zealand called a timeout but it did little to spark a massive change for the Kiwis. 

New Zealand did manage to add 12 points from quarter time but hopes of a comeback were dashed as they were held scoreless for four minutes during the second quarter.

The second half started slowly as neither side able to generate solid offensive plays but it was Heal who got the scoring back underway with two quick jumpers. The final quarter is when the Kiwis made their mark as they kept up with the pace of the Sapphires. 

New Zealand were down 67-32 midway through the final term when a timeout was called and this time it worked in Kiwi's favour. 

The Sapphires now face Italy, who saw off host Belarus, on Friday 11:30pm AEST.