Notts spinner Graeme Swann secured a five wicket haul to derail Australia's hopes of clinching a series whitewash.
In achieving the feat, Swann became only the fifth spin bowler ever to take five wickets in a One Day International and will be central to any hopes of an England revival in the ICC Champions Trophy.
Ricky Ponting top-scored with 53 for Australia but they were all out for 176 inside 46 overs to give England a winning opportunity.
An opening stand of 106 between Andrew Strauss and Joe Denly laid firm foundations and despite the loss of six wickets, Tim Bresnan and Paul Collingwood saw England home.