Joe Schmidt, former Ireland national team head coach, appointed as Australia’s new manager

Former Ireland national team manager Joe Schmidt has been appointed as Australia’s head coach, replacing Eddie Jones.

Schmidt’s two-year contract begins in March and runs until the end of the next British & Irish Lions tour in 2025.

Jones resigned in October after the Wallabies failed to qualify for the World Cup finals for the first time.

“I thought it was a good opportunity to get actively involved and encourage Australia,” Mr Schmidt said.

The 58-year-old New Zealander joined Australia after serving as a selector and assistant coach for the All Blacks.

He led Ireland from 2013 to 2019, winning three Six Nations titles and defeating New Zealand for the first time in 111 years.

He also coached the team when it became world number one for the first time.

Schmidt follows on from a disastrous 2023 for Australia, which saw them win just two World Cups and finish bottom after losing to Argentina, New Zealand and South Africa.

“It’s going to take some time to rebuild and I’m probably a realist,” he added. “I can’t promise you anything other than that I will work hard to be as successful as possible.

“I’m also a realistic coach. People are judged by their results, and they live or die.”

Schmidt’s first tournament in charge will be this summer’s Rugby Championship, but he is also keeping an eye on the Lions’ tour of Australia in 2025.

In that series, Schmidt will replace Ireland against Andy Farrell, who was appointed as the Lions’ new coach earlier this month.

“Joe’s appointment was a unanimous decision,” Rugby Australia High Performance Director Peter Horne said.

“Everyone on the panel was impressed with his demeanor, calm and logical approach to the game and communication style.

“Throughout his career, Joe has demonstrated the ability to take a leadership role in structural change while developing a strong culture and world-class players.”