Ewen McKenzie is targeting the Bledisloe Cup after being installed as the new Australia coach.

McKenzie, who had been linked with the Scotland job following Andy Robinson's resignation, succeeds Robbie Deans in the post with the New Zealander stepping down in the wake of the recent series defeat to the British and Irish Lions.

The 48-year-old made 51 appearances for Australia at prop and was part of their 1991 World Cup-winning squad before carving out a successful coaching career at home and overseas. He is excited at the opportunity to coach his country and is hoping to make an immediate impact.

"I'm really pleased to be able to accept the job of Wallaby coach," he said. "I'm pretty proud right now, pretty privileged to be able to get that opportunity. I've been asked to do a very specific job, that job starts in five weeks' time. There's no better coaching assignment than to pit yourself against the All Blacks.

"I've played and coached in a bunch of Bledisloe Cup games [as A team coach] and to get another crack at the All Blacks is terrific. It's a really important time in Australian rugby. On the field, people will worry about where the Wallabies are at. I'm looking forward to the challenge of making a difference."

Deans decided to quit following Saturday's 41-16 third Test heavy defeat to the Lions which handed the tourists a 2-1 triumph.

An Australian Rugby Union statement read: "Qantas Wallabies head coach Robbie Deans has announced this morning he is stepping down from the role effective immediately.

"We have been conducting due diligence over the last few months, taking into account broad criteria for coach selection," the ARU chief executive Bill Pulver said. "Consideration was given to leadership skills, discipline, coaching capability, coaching records, and factors such as character, values and style of play."

Deans led the Wallabies in 74 Tests having been appointed early in 2008.

He said: "I wish to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved in Australian rugby for their support through the duration of my tenure. It has been a rewarding five years and I am proud of all that we have achieved."