MORE: Fourth Test Preview: Australia v India
A hamstring injury has ruled Johnson out of the final match of the series, which starts on Tuesday, allowing 24-year-old Starc another chance.
Starc was given an opportunity in the second Test in Brisbane but struggled as he took 0-83 and 2-27.
After being dropped, he performed well for the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League – taking 1-36 and 2-21 in two games in the Twenty20 competition.
It means Peter Siddle and Ashton Agar have missed out after only one change to the Australian XI.
Shane Watson has overcome a stomach bug to take his place, while David Warner will play despite battling arm and thumb injuries.
Australia coach Darren Lehmann said the team were unwilling to take risks with Johnson, with the Cricket World Cup coming up.
"Mitchell is an important part of our plans for the remainder of our summer and we want him 100 per cent right so won't be taking any risks with him," he said.
"We believe it is best for Mitchell to take this opportunity to freshen up and get his body fully fit ahead of the tri-series."
Australia XI: David Warner, Chris Rogers, Shane Watson, Steve Smith, Shaun Marsh, Joe Burns, Brad Haddin, Ryan Harris, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.