SOUTH Africa completed an historic first series victory in Australia after the win in Melbourne put the Proteas 2-0 up in the series with one Test left to play.

Jacques Kallis, who has been on the end of some stinging losses at the hands of the Australians, said the feat was just as big - if not bigger - than winning the World Cup.

It was Australia's first series defeat at home since 1992-93 and puts South Africa just one Test win away from becoming the new number nation in the world.

Kallis, who picked up his 250th Test scalp during the match and is now just 53 runs away from becoming the eighth man to reach 10,000 runs, could barely hide his excitement at his team's performance.

"At the MCG, what better place to want to do it. I've had some individual high moments here but...this one takes the cake," Kallis, who is on his fourth tour of Australia, told Channel 9.

"Having won a Test match here beats all those feelings, it's an unbelievable effort."

Led by captain Graeme Smith, the Proteas reached the victory target of 183 midway through the second session.

But Kallis said there were still some nervous moments in the dressing rooms despite the relatively small run chase.

"I don't think it's ever easy when you're chasing a total," he said. "There's always anxious moments."

Smith, meanwhile, was lost for words as he gave his victory speech.

"It has been such a special moment for all of us, it has been an incredible team effort," he said.

"I have been smiling non-stop since we hit the winning runs.

"To be 2-0 up after this game was something we only dreamt of."

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