Rugby Australia Chief Aiming to Expedite Discussions with Joe Schmidt Ahead of Super Rugby Pacific Season

Phil Waugh is keen to prevent the ongoing Joe Schmidt situation from overshadowing the Super Rugby Pacific season, as he works to extend the tenure of the talented coach beyond 2025.

The Wallabies’ head coach Schmidt’s contract concludes following the British and Irish Lions tour in August.

While he values his time with Rugby Australia, Schmidt is also considering his family’s needs.

Schmidt resides in Taupo, New Zealand, with his wife Kellie and son Luke, who suffers from severe epilepsy.

Rugby Australia’s CEO Phil Waugh is keen for Schmidt to sign on until the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

Both Schmidt and Waugh initially anticipated resolving the situation by Christmas, but discussions are still ongoing.

“We’re acutely aware and respectful of Joe,” Waugh stated during the SRP season launch at Sydney’s Prince Henry Centre. “It’s crucial that we collaborate with him to find a reasonable resolution.

“Clearly, everyone is eager to reach a conclusion sooner rather than later. We’re trying to expedite the process, and he has been completely open with us as we seek a practical solution.

“I’m cautious about pinning down specific dates, but we are thoughtful in our approach and will arrive at a reasonable conclusion. We definitely don’t want anything to detract from the excitement of Super Rugby, which is shaping up to be an impressive season.”

The season is set to commence on February 14.

One possibility is for Schmidt to stay on in a senior consultant role, allowing someone like Les Kiss (Reds) to take charge of coaching.

Other domestic coaches include Dan McKellar (Waratahs), Stephen Larkham (Brumbies), and Simon Cron (Force).

Waugh, a former Wallabies captain, remarked that this coaching group is notably stronger than in previous seasons.

“To develop players and squads at a provincial level, you need world-class coaches throughout the system,” he explained. “I believe we’ve made great strides in bringing exceptional coaches on board. This investment in coaching yielding better players, translates to improved performance in our Australian Super Rugby teams, while also ensuring we have the right coaching staff at the Wallabies level.”

All Blacks legend Beauden Barrett, who has closely worked with Schmidt at both Test and Super Rugby levels, commented, “I know how much value he brings to Rugby Australia and the Wallabies. As an All Black, I hope he doesn’t extend his contract; however, I also recognise how beneficial it would be for the Wallabies if he does.”

“He is an exceptional leader and a top-tier coach. I believe he will soon have clarity on his decision,” Barrett added.

Additionally, Waugh observed that the buzz surrounding Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii mirrors the excitement of his own playing days, when league converts like Lote Tuqiri, Mat Rogers, and Wendell Sailor drew large crowds.

“Joseph’s remarkable performances during the Spring Tour generated significant interest,” he noted.

“Back in 2006, Super Rugby matches at Allianz Stadium drew an average of 37,000 spectators. There is genuine excitement surrounding the Waratahs squad, and if they can play an entertaining brand of rugby and achieve success, there is no better place to be than that stadium, watching it live.”

Waugh also expressed hopes of soon announcing a new broadcasting agreement.

“We have a strong partnership with NEC (Nine Entertainment Company) and Stan, and we are working collaboratively to outline what the landscape will look like beyond 2026. Super Rugby Pacific is vital, and the energy is positive once again. We can make many promises, and it’s crucial we deliver on the field, as there is definitely the right vibe surrounding us.”