South Africa require another 417 runs to beat Australia on day four of the first Test in Centurion.
Australia resumed with a lead of 479 runs as they reached 288-3 at the close of play on day three.
They made just two more runs and lost the wicket of Shaun Marsh (44) following a good delivery by Dale Steyn, before declaring on 290-4.
Michael Clarke started with Ryan Harris and Mitchell Johnson on bowling duties, and Johnson got off to a great start with his 250th test wicket.
Robin Peterson (1) edged a delivery and Brad Haddin took a diving catch.
Hashim Amla came in for South Africa, but things did not get any better. Graeme Smith (4) clipped a shot off the middle of the bat and it went straight to Alex Doolan at short leg.
The Proteas recovered well, but did lose the wicket of Faf du Plessis (14) to leave them 65-3 at lunch with Amla (22*) and AB de Villiers (4*) at the crease.
