End of the line: Pim Verbeek has decided to call time on his role with Australia after the World Cup

Former South Korea coach Verbeek was appointed in December 2007 and helped Australia reach their highest ever position of 14th in the world rankings in September 2009.

In helping Australia qualify for the World Cup 2010 in South Africa and next year's Asian Cup in Qatar, Verbeek amassed a record of 15 wins, eight draws and four defeats in 27 matches.

"It has been a very difficult decision for me after more than two years, but it is time for me to look for a new challenge," said Verbeek.

"I have enjoyed every minute of being head coach of Australia and we achieved some fantastic results including qualifying for the World Cup and the Asian Cup.

"It is a good time to make this announcement so we can now focus completely on preparing everything perfectly for the upcoming World Cup in South Africa.

"We will do everything right to prepare for this tournament to get the best result possible."

Australia have been drawn in Group D alongside Germany, Serbia and Ghana and kick-off their World Cup campaign against Germany in Durban on June 13 .

"Pim has been a great coach for the Qantas Socceroos and has earned the respect of everybody in football in this country and around the world," said Football Federation Australia chairman Frank Lowy.

"He has been the consummate professional in every aspect of his role and has led our national team with distinction.

"Under his leadership the team has achieved everything we aimed to achieve and I expect he will have the team ready to perform at its best in South Africa."