Do I need a visa if I'm transitting in Guangzhou International Airport?

I am travelling from Hong Kong into Guangzhou, in order to catch my return flight to Sydney. Since I am travelling on China Southern Airline, I will have to take my luggage out from the HK- GZ flight at Guangzhao international Airport after landing and re-check my baggage for my Guangzhou to Sydney flight.
My question is regarding- do I really need a China Visa to re-check in my baggage, in order for my return flight to Sydney from Guangzhao International Airport? Please advise if you know any information. Thanks