Netball: John Howard backs Australia to win

CANBERRA - Prime Minister John Howard has thrown his support behind the Australian netball team ahead of tonight's world championship final against New Zealand.

Tournament favourites Australia and defending champions New Zealand are both confident of taking out the championships.

However, Australia has history on its side heading into tonight's game in New Zealand, having won six of the last eight matches.

"I wish the girls every success in this important match," Mr Howard told reporters in Sydney.

Australia is the world's most successful netball side, holding eight titles since the tournament's inception in 1963.

- AAP