Rugby Australia eases rules on Overseas Player Selection

Rugby Australia has officially declared the Giteau Law redundant, confirming that Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt and his successor Les Kiss will have full freedom to select players from overseas clubs without any restrictions.

The announcement came after Australia concluded its series against the British and Irish Lions.

RA CEO Phil Waugh and Head of High Performance Peter Horne stated that while all overseas-based players are now eligible, the organisation would still prioritise domestic talent when players are of comparable ability.

This shift in policy signals a more flexible selection approach ahead of the 2025 Rugby Championship and 2027 Rugby World Cup preparations.

Under the earlier Giteau Law, only players with 60 or more Test caps who had spent seven seasons in Super Rugby were eligible for Wallabies selection while playing overseas. However, several players, including Samu Kerevi, Marika Koroibete, and Bernard Foley, had already received exemptions in recent years.

The updated stance means that European-bound stars such as Will Skelton, Taniela Tupou, Langi Gleeson, and Tom Hooper are now expected to remain in the selection pool. RA's move aims to ensure the Wallabies field their best available squad without being limited by domestic contracts.

“We're pretty open—Joe's got no impediment to select whoever he wants,” Horne said.

“The Giteau Law is kind of redundant. But if the player is equal, our priority remains to back Australian-based talent.”

Horne further explained that RA’s goal is to develop a stronger domestic base, ensuring competition and growth within the Super Rugby Pacific teams. This includes continued investments in player development pathways and nurturing young talent at home.

Waugh added that while international selections are now unrestricted, the broader goal remains to retain top-tier players in Australia.

“Cohesion is critically important,” he said. “We want to keep as many of our best players here, but we recognise the need to remain competitive globally.”