Victory in the final Test by 135 runs denied Australia the series win with the five match series finishing 2-2.
But it is the next contest between the two sides Down Under in 2021-22 that Root believes they must start building towards.
“I will do everything I can to get us prepared for going down there and doing something very special,” he said.
“I am planning to be here and I am desperate to take this team forward.
“Hopefully that is a starting point and stepping stone for us to start moving forward as a team.
“We look like we are starting to get to grips with Test cricket after a long period of one day cricket and now we have an opportunity in next two and a half years to push and do everything we can to prepare for that tour to Australia.
“That is going to be a huge focus for me and Australian cricket.”
Root insisted that in Rory Burns and Jofra Archer they have found a batsman and a bowler who can be in it for the whole journey.
“Guys have stepped up under pressure and that is really pleasing. Rory has come through it and has been stand out opener throughout the whole series,” Root added.
“And when I face him (Archer) in the nets against the red ball it was clear he was going to be very special. Got to be careful not to expect too much.
“He is a young guy playing all three formats and I am still learning how to get best out of him as captain but he is going to entertain and make things happen.
“He will not always bowl at 90mph but will go at two an over and create chances.”