Former Australian paceman Glenn McGrath has predicted Australia will whitewash South Africa 3-0 in the Test series.

The taker of 563 wickets in 124 Tests, McGrath was famous for forecasting series results during his playing days and was only too happy to continue the trend when assessing Australia's chances against the Proteas.

Speaking at the launch of a Cricket Australia-McGrath Foundation initiative at the SCG today, the fast bowling great thinks Australia will go through the summer undefeated in the long form of the game.

"South Africa's a good quality team - they've got some class batsmen and bowlers - but I still back our boys any day," said the 38-year-old.

"My prediction's still 3-0. I'm looking forward to it. I think it should be an interesting series."

Australian vice-captain Michael Clarke, standing alongside McGrath, was reluctant to join his one-time team-mate in predicting a 3-0 wipeout, but said confidence was high in the Australia camp.

"He hasn't changed - same old, same old from the old boy," Clarke said after hearing McGrath's prediction.

"But I hope he's right. We will be doing everything in our power to win every Test we play as we have done throughout my career.

"Glenn showed the world his attitude; he wanted to win to win every game he played.

"Whether it's against South Africa or whoever we're playing, we'll be trying to win."

The Proteas arrived in Australia this week with question marks over their build-up following a 2-0 Test series win over Bangladesh.

But Clarke insists that will count for little when the first ball is bowled at the WACA next week.

"They will be fired up to beat Australia," he added.

"I think we're in for a very tough Test series. The WACA's hopefully going to be fast and bouncy so we're in for a bit of pace from both teams' quick bowlers.

"I know our guys are looking forward to the challenge."