Waratahs number eight Wycliff Palu has earned a recall to the Australia squad ahead of the Tri Nations.

Palu will be joined by 21-year-old Reds half-back Will Genia with Lote Tuqiri and Josh Valentine making way.

The selectors have decided on a 17-13 split between forwards and backs for the next phase of the international season which begins on July 18 against New Zealand at Eden Park.

"If you look at the competition from an historical perspective, and more particularly look at the pointers from our experience last year, it is in the forward pack where our resources are most likely to come under stress," coach Robbie Deans said.

"With that in mind, and given the nature of playing resources that we have available to us at the moment in terms of players who we feel are capable at this level, we felt that a 17-13 split was the most appropriate mix for this tournament."

Palu returns after sustaining shoulder and hand injuries since his last Wallabies appearance against France in November.

"Cliff is in the same position as Will, in that he would have been selected in our initial squad had he been available," Deans said.

"Now that he's good to go, we're pleased to have him back."

Australia squad for the 2009 Tri Nations - Ben Alexander, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Berrick Barnes, Al Baxter, Richard Brown, Luke Burgess, Quade Cooper, Pekahou Cowan, Ryan Cross, Rocky Elsom, Will Genia, Matt Giteau, Matt Hodgson, James Horwill, Peter Hynes, Peter Kimlin, Drew Mitchell, Stephen Moore, Stirling Mortlock, Dean Mumm, James O'Connor, Wycliff Palu, David Pocock, Tatafu Polota-Nau, Benn Robinson, Nathan Sharpe, George Smith, Timana Tahu, Lachie Turner, Phil Waugh.