The Tasmanian, who celebrates his 35th birthday at the end of January, has powerful allies in his corner as he attempts to dethrone two-time defending champion Daryl Impey.

Among them are world champion Mads Pedersen and veteran domestique Koen De Kort.

Porte won the Tour in 2017 but has finished runner-up four times, including twice to South African ace Impey (Mitchelton-Scott) in the past two years.

"It's always nice to come to Adelaide and start the season," Porte said.

"All I've done is train, so it's hard to say (what sort of form I'm in), but I've definitely got a better team here than last year.

"That's a good sign, I think.

"I've trained well, I've got a super team here and I've done everything I can to control where I'm at, so I'm looking forward to the start of the race."

Pedersen left no doubt about Trek-Segafredo's team plans on Monday when he was asked whether he had personal ambitions to win any stages or jerseys.

"Definitely not," he said.

"I'm here to help Richie out for the next week, so that's what I have to do."

Porte's chances of snaring the ochre jersey have been helped by the inclusion of a climb into Paracombe at the conclusion of stage three on Thursday.

The undisputed 'King of Willunga' will then aim for a seventh straight win on the signature stage on Australia Day.

"I'd love to but it's easier said than done," Porte said.

"Of course I'll give it my best shake, but I think everybody here is going to be doing the same.

"It could be countless other guys ... there's always a surprise packet in this race."

Australian Associated Press