With the Constellation Cup already secured, Geitz and the Diamonds have set their sights on a record victory against arch-rivals New Zealand on Sunday.

If the Diamonds win at the AIS Arena, it will be the first time in 15 years Australia has beaten New Zealand in four consecutive Tests. It would also be a massive psychological boost in the last trans-Tasman clash before the Commonwealth Games next year.

For Geitz it's the next step in a superb start to her stint as Australian captain.

But the 26-year-old says a mixed year of heartache and highs has created a steely determination to succeed and lead from the front.

''One thing this year has taught is that you don't know how much strength you've got until you're actually tested,'' Geitz said.

''I've got a different perspective on things now … I always thought in the back of my head how wonderful it would be if I was given a chance to captain but I never banked on it happening.

''It's still sinking in … I still walk off the court every time and think, 'goodness me'. But it has capped off a bitter-sweet year for me with everything else that has happened.''

Geitz's year has been a rollercoaster.

Her father, Ross, died in a farm accident in May. Geitz's mum Juanita will be at the AIS Arena and the defender says her family has been her inspiration this year. Geitz contemplated walking away from netball when her father died, but led the Queensland Firebirds on a superb run into the ANZ Championship grand final.

The Firebirds fell short of a dream championship and lost the grand final.

The former Australian Institute of Sport graduate was then thrust into the Diamonds' captaincy role when Natalie von Bertouch retired in July. She's done all that while juggling work on her own netball clothing line which has expansion plans for next year.

''I did feel the pressure initially, in the first few games I was pretty nervous about stepping into some pretty big shoes,'' Geitz said.

''But I'm enjoying myself and that's when I think you lead best. I want to see what this team can achieve together. I'm so thrilled to be leading this team.''

Geitz didn't start playing netball until she was 13.

She spent two years at the AIS honing her game before stamping herself as one of the best players in Australia.

''Laura is growing with every game and getting better and better,'' former Diamonds skipper Liz Ellis said.

''She's leading by example. She shows the way and has really turned the game for the Australians when you need it.''

Diamonds wing defence Renae Hallinan declared Geitz ''the whole package''.

''She's a brilliant captain and inspiring on and off the court,'' Hallinan said.

''She certainly leads from the front, it's great to watch and play under her as a leader. She's looking to grow in that role, I'm very proud of her and she's the whole package.''