England started strong, winning the toss and bowling Australia out for 132 before building a lead.
But Starc’s seven for 58 in the first innings and three for 55 in the second triggered a collapse from 65 for one to 76 for five, with Scott Boland taking four for 33.
Travis Head then smashed a blistering 104 not out off 69 balls—the fastest Ashes century since 2006—to chase down 205 in just 28 overs.
Controversy over Jamie Smith’s tight dismissal added tension, as umpire’s call upheld the out decision.