Defending champion Sebastien Ogier is relishing his looming battle with Volkswagen teammate Jari-Matti Latvala as they hunt for victory at Rally Australia and this year’s world title.

Just 44 points separate the pair atop the World Rally Championship standings heading into the season’s 10th event, starting on Friday in and around Coffs Harbour.

The star duo had won every race until last round in Germany, where both failed to finish and secure points.

Their dominance means Volkswagen are all but guaranteed the manufacturers’ championship in Australia, but the fight for the drivers’ crown is far from decided.

Latvala is the only driver in a position to catch Ogier and both have been released from team orders to pursue the 2014 title.

“I think it’s good for the sport and good for the fans to see us fighting,” Ogier told AAP.

“When you fight with your teammate, you know that you both have exactly the same material and only us in the car that will make the difference.

“It’s actually pretty nice. I like (to have) a fair fight and fair battle.”

This time last year, Ogier held a whopping 75-point advantage in the championship and was set to be crowned world champion with victory in Australia.

Although he won, rival Thierry Neuville finished second and denied him the title until the next event in France.

Ogier said while the situation was different this year, his approach would be similar – but admitted his crash in Germany had provided a shot in the arm.

“Of course now we are really motivated and hungry to be back doing what we usually do, and that’s fighting at the top – hopefully for the victory,” the Frenchman said.

“I’m still quite relaxed, I know that I have everything in my hand.”

Australia’s most successful international rally driver, Chris Atkinson, is the only local in the 21-strong field.

He hasn’t raced for Hyundai since March, nor has he competed in his home event since 2006, but is still aiming high.

“My target for Australia is to be consistent and be in the fight for a good result, but I’m not underestimating how difficult it will be to be on the pace after six months away,” Atkinson said.

“The car is showing some good speed so everything is heading in the right direction. I know we’ll have some really strong support from the Aussie fans too.”

The action begins on Friday on mostly narrow, winding forest roads under tree cover.

Saturday’s stages pass through more open countryside with big sweeping corners, crests and jumps, while Sunday is all about speed through the rainforest.