Just one day out from the opening Constellation Cup test an off court matter threatens to overshadow the series.
The Australian Netball Players' Association has rejected Netball Australia's collective player agreement proposal for the Super Netball competition.
Domestic players have now been without pay for 10 days, though Australian captain Liz Watson says it hasn't distracted her side.
"We're very professional, we're here with the Diamonds about to play in a really exciting series. Obviously there's been things bobbling on in the background but we have a lot of trust in our association, our delegates back home with their clubs, so they've really stepped up and taken on that bigger role while we can be here and perform."
It's not the first time the Diamonds have played through turbulence. A sponsorship ordeal with mining company Hancock Prospecting took the shine off last year's series.
Silver Ferns coach Dame Noeline Taurua said the off court issues won't be felt on the court.
"It's not distracting for us. What I know of my time over here, it's why they call them Aussie battlers. Yes, there are things that are happening off the court but they're very determined and disciplined as to what they need to do on court. They'll do their business."
The Diamonds will be battling a new look Silver Ferns side. New Zealand's starting seven is expected to remain unchanged from the final two Taini Jamison Trophy tests against England.
Australia haven't played against a Ferns side with the attacking combination of Amelia Walmsley, Mila Reuelu-Buchanan and Maddy Gordon.
"Definitely looking to build off those combinations but also looking at the other combinations, especially in circle defence," Dame Noeline said.
The first test gets underway tomorrow night in Melbourne at 9.30pm NZT.
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