The veteran has come back into the starting XV at the expense of youngster Jack van Poortvliet, who helped engineer an England win in Brisbane to level the series.
Care started the series opener in Perth two weeks ago, and England coach Eddie Jones has opted for his experience with the Ellis-Mobb trophy on the line at the SCG.
But it's a surprise given 21-year-old van Poortvliet was one of the visitors' best at Suncorp Stadium.
In other changes, lock Ollie Chessum will make his starting debut with Maro Itoje unavailable after a head-knock, while Lewis Ludlam is the new starting openside flanker with Sam Underhill also suffering concussion.
Back-rower Nick Isiekwe could make his first appearance in the series after being included in the reserves.
Guy Porter, who captained Sydney University and only shifted to England at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, has been retained at outside centre.
ENGLAND: Freddie Steward, Jack Nowell, Guy Porter, Owen Farrell, Tommy Freeman, Marcus Smith, Danny Care, Billy Vunipola, Lewis Ludlam, Courtney Lawes (capt), Jonny Hill, Ollie Chessum, Will Stuart, Jamie George, Ellis Genge. Reserves: Luke Cowan-Dickie, Mako Vunipola, Joe Heyes, Nick Isiekwe, Jack Willis, Jack van Poortvliet, Will Joseph, Henry Arundell.
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