Genia’s sidelining gives a starting chance to Nic White, while captaincy is handed to Ben Mowen, who made his international debut in June.
Despite a mixed performance in his return to the number 10 jersey in the Wallabies loss to South Africa, Quade Cooper remains, while Israel Folau keeps his place at full-back.
Ben Alexander comes in for Sekope Kepu at prop following a battering from the Springboks pack last week.
McKenzie, who’s winless since taking over from Robbie Deans following the 2-1 loss to the Lions, said Genia wasn’t playing because White deserved a shot.
“The fact that Will has captained his country shows what high regard we hold him in and while he is naturally disappointed I also know how competitive he is and I’ve got no doubts he will train himself to a standstill to bounce back as a better player,” McKenzie said.
“We’ve spoken about what areas we believe he can continue to improve and evolve his game and he was receptive to going back and addressing those things.
“In the end, it wasn’t an easy decision because he is undoubtedly a world class player.
“However, we also feel Nic has earned an opportunity to start and will add his own uniqueness and point of difference to how we want to play this game.
“Nic has had a great season with the Brumbies and has brought his own brand of energy and hard work to the Wallaby group.”
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