Proteas finally beaten in Melbourne
Their previous six ODI meetings in Melbourne had all ended in victory for South Africa.
The visitors looked good for another win with Australia struggling at 98 for five in pursuit of a victory target of 268.
However, Steven Smith and Matthew Wade then shared in a sixth-wicket partnership of 121.
Wade was eventually out for 52 and Smith a superb 104.
James Faulkner finished the job they started with a fine 34 not out from just 19 balls.
Kyle Abbott was the pick of the SA bowlers.
The Sunfoil Dolphins star took one for 43 in his ten overs.
AB de Villiers had earlier top scored for the Proteas with 91.
David Miller made 45 at the MCG today.
Australia now enjoy a winning 3-1 lead in the series.
Pakistan remain 1-0 up in their three-match Test series against New Zealand.
The second Test ended in a draw in Dubai this afternoon.
Set a victory target of 261, Pakistan reached 196 for five.
Younis Khan was out for 44.
Ross Taylor made 104 in the New Zealand second innings effort of 250 for nine declared.
Yasir Shah claimed five for 79 for Pakistan.
(File Photo: Gallo Images)
Twitter - @SportswaveAndre