They say you've got to bet big to win big, but Australia will contemplate taking the ultimate gamble in their attempt to topple South Africa in an emotion-charged third Test at the WACA Ground, starting Friday.

With James Pattinson ruled out with a side strain and fellow quicks Peter Siddle and Ben Hilfenhaus given a well-earned rest following their Herculean workloads in Adelaide, Australia will unleash a new-look bowling attack against the Proteas in Perth.

Returning veteran Mitchell Johnson, who hasn't played a Test for more than a year, will lead the attack, while four-Test rookie Mitchell Starc will also be thrust into a leadership role with the ball.

But it's the decision of whether to go in with a four-man pace attack, or stick with a spinner, that could make-or-break Australia's quest to snare the No.1 Test ranking.

Australia successfully employed an all-out WACA pace attack for the past two summers in wins over India and England.