NSW Waratahs head coach Mike Ruthven will join the Wallaroos coaching staff until the end of the Pacific Four Series in 2026.
Ruthven has guided the Waratahs to back-to-back titles in the Super Rugby Women's competition in 2024 and 2025.
Watch every second of the 2025 Autumn Nations Series live and on demand via Stan Sport.
It came after the powerhouse side missed the Final for the first time in 2023.
The former Warringah coach will oversee the attack and will remain the Waratahs coach for the 2026 Super Rugby season.
"I’m very excited by the opportunity to step into this role with the Wallaroos and work with both new and familiar faces at the international level," Ruthven said.
"There is a tremendous amount of talent in the Wallaroos squad, and I look forward to helping unlock that potential with the coaches and players in the coming months.
"The recent World Cup was a fantastic showcase of women’s rugby, and as a coach, it’s a great step up for me to offer my assistance and experience to this environment."
Ruthven will focus on the attack alongside fellow assistant Gill Bourke, who is in charge of the forwards.
Former Wallaroos assistant Sam Neads will serve as head coach, with legendary coach Andy Friend taking on a Technical Advisor role.
"We are delighted to secure the services of Mike as an assistant coach through to the end of the Pacific Four Series," RA GM of Women's Rugby Jilly Collins said.
"Mike brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Wallaroos that will immediately support our existing coaching team.
"His work with many of the Wallaroos through the Waratahs means he's ready to hit the ground running, making this appointment a great fit for the program."
The Wallaroos will come together at the end of the month for a training camp ahead of the 2026 season.
