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Australia will host the Netherlands in October as part of busy schedule of internationals to prepare for next year's World Cup in South Africa.

The Dutch, who have forged a strong link with the Australians after Guus Hiddink and (current coach) Pim Verbeek had spells in charge of the Socceroos, have agreed to a friendly at the Sydney Football Stadium on October 10.

The Australians will also play friendlies away to Ireland (August 12) and South Korea (September 15) before a block of four Asian Cup qualifers against Oman, Kuwait and Indonesia between October and March.

The Football Federation of Australia are also trying to lure a high-profile opponent to Australia next year just before the World Cup finals start in June.

"It's a solid workout for the Socceroos," FFA chief executive Ben Buckley said in a statement.

"There's a good mix of high quality opposition as well as vitally important qualification matches for the 2011 AFC Asian Cup.

"We are, of course, very excited to be heading to South Africa in June next year but we want to ensure that we also qualify for the 2011 AFC Asian Cup in Qatar."

Reuters