The Australian men's hockey team has bounced back from a disappointing semi-final defeat to Spain to claim the bronze medal with a 6-2 win over the Netherlands.

After missing the chance to defend their Olympic gold from Athens, the Kookaburras turned on the skill early against their rivals from four years ago.

Australia’s Eddie Ockenden scored twice within six minutes before Des Abbott added another three minutes later.

The shell-shocked Dutch replied through penalty corner ace Taeke Taekema, his 12th goal of the tournament, and a field goal to Teun de Nooijer.

Australia went into the break leading 4-2 after a goal from Eli Matheson seven minutes before half-time and Rob Hammond added one more soon after resumption to make it 5-2.

Australia completed its scoring spree eight minutes from the end when Luke Doerner banged in a penalty corner.

Captain Bevan George said it was an impressive way to finish the tournament.

'We saved our best till last,' George said.

'We played pretty well all tournament, disappointed with the semi-final (against Spain) but everything just came together for us against the Netherlands.'

'I wish we'd played like that in the semi-final but absolutely rapt with the way the boys played today and you couldn't ask for a better finish.'

AIS Director Professor Peter Fricker paid tribute to the Australian team’s persistence and determination.

'To lift themselves up from the disappointed of not playing off for the gold medal and win the bronze medal was a fine achievement,' Professor Fricker said.

'The bronze medal is a real testament to their character and the training program here at the AIS.’

The Australian Institute of Sport was established in 1981, and has consistently contributed to Australia’s outstanding sporting performance on the world stage.

The Australian Olympic team in Beijing consists of 435 athletes. Of these, there are 264 current or former AIS athletes.

The Australian Sports Commission (ASC), on behalf of the Australian Government, invests in and supports our Olympians and Paralympians in many ways.

In addition to the $18.1 million the ASC provided to the AIS in 2007/08, the ASC also funded the athletes’ sports to the tune of $53.4 million in 2007/08.

Furthermore, the ASC provided direct funding totalling $4.3 million to more than 400 athletes in 2007/08 — vital support for athletes in their preparation for sporting success. This represents a total Australian government investment of $75.8 million in 2007/08 for our Olympians and Paralympians. The ASC is committed to providing all Australians with the best opportunity possible to participate in sport.