PERTH (Reuters) - A pair of tries by Lote Tuqiri and Stirling Mortlock carried Australia to a 16-9 victory over South Africa in the Tri-nations on Saturday.

The Springboks, who ended New Zealand's five-year unbeaten run at home last weekend in Dunedin, were tormented by a host of errors and a failure to convert the chances they created.

The top-class Australian loose trio, led by Rocky Elsom, gave a commanding display at the breakdown, where the Wallabies won a steady supply of quick ball.

South Africa won an early penalty, converted by centre Francois Steyn, but Australia led from the 35th minute after a try by wing Tuqiri.

Captain Mortlock scored five minutes after halftime, flyhalf Matt Giteau kicked a penalty and centre Berrick Barnes added the finishing touches with a late drop goal.

Steyn added another penalty for South Africa, as did flyhalf Butch James.

(Editing by Ken Ferris)