The Wallabies did not look convincing at times but they did enough to post a 45-10 bonus-point win over Uruguay in their Rugby World Cup Pool D match at Oita Stadium.
The scoreboard will show the Wallabies scored seven tries to one to secure their second win in Japan, but their performance was inconsistent and marred by poor discipline.
Forwards Adam Coleman and Lukhan Salakaia-Loto received yellow cards in the first half and the Wallabies were perhaps fortunate Uruguay did not take advantage of having the extra player on the field for essentially 20 minutes.
The Wallabies, who proudly wore their Indigenous jerseys, led 19-3 at half-time, before adding four tries in the second term when their intensity lifted against a spirited Uruguayan outfit.
They did have highlights, however, with teenage winger Jordan Petaia shining on debut with a try and some effective touches before he was replaced at half-time by Adam Ashley-Cooper.
It was just a precautionary measure on the part of the Wallabies, given the 19-year-old had been hampered by a hamstring injury before the World Cup.
Outside centre Tevita Kuridrani pushed his case to be considered for a starting berth in the knock-out stage with two tries, while Dane Haylett-Petty also crossed for a double.
James Slipper celebrated a personal milestone when he touched down for his first Test try, while replacement half-back Will Genia also registered a five-pointer.
Recalled five-eighth and goal kicker Christian Lealiifano landed five conversions from the tee.
Uruguay's points came via a try to Manuel Diana in the 77th minute. Felipe Berchesi kicked a conversion and penalty goal.
The Wallabies provisionally go to the top of Pool D ahead of Wales facing Fiji in Oita on Wednesday.
The Wallabies next face Georgia in their final pool match in Shizuoka on Friday and Uruguay closes out its tournament against Wales in Kumamoto.
Look back over the action in Oita with our blog.
