Australia have frequently looked to foreign coaches with Dutchman Pim Verbeek, who succeeded compatriot Guus Hiddink, in charge for World Cup beginning on June 11.
However, Vidmar's appointment is seen as a way of grooming him for the top job.
"Aurelio is a great young coach and a position like this is a fantastic stepping stone for him and it will give him the opportunity to aspire to the head coaching role down the track," Football Federation Australia (FFA) CEO Ben Buckley said in a statement on Thursday.
Vidmar, 43, who has stepped down as boss of A-League side Adelaide United, will take up his new role, also involving being in charge of Australia's 2012 Olympic side, after the World Cup.
Vidmar and the new manager's first task will to prepare the team for the January 7-29 Asian Cup finals in Qatar.
