A relentless British and Irish Lions were ferocious in attack and solid in defence to edge a dogged Australia and win a bruising first Test 27-19 in Brisbane on Saturday.

The tourists repeatedly laid siege to the Wallabies' line for a 17-5 lead at the break before soaking up second-half pressure to bank the win with both sides scoring three tries.

A late Australia try meant the scoreline flattered a poor Wallabies side, with the Lions never looking in trouble after opening up a 24-5 lead shortly after half-time.

Played in front of 52,229 fans at a sold-out Suncorp Stadium, many wearing the Red of the Lions, the tourists proved too strong for a brave, but outgunned Australian outfit.

With Scottish fly-half Finn Russell pulling the strings in the backs and outstanding loose forwards Tom Curry and Tadhg Beirne dominating up front, the Lions showed why they went into the Test as firm favourites.

But despite being behind for all of the match, the Wallabies didn't roll over, and fears of a huge defeat never materialised.

The Lions now head to the Melbourne Cricket Ground for next Saturday's second Test 1-0 up in the three-match series. (AFP)