Lomax envisions earning a Wallabies spot for 2027 before possibly returning to rugby league in 2028.

Lomax’s code switch follows a trend of league players moving to union, with peers like Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii and Angus Crichton weighing in on his potential in rugby union.

Lomax’s path to union comes after a disputed attempt to switch from Parramatta Eels to Rugby 360, including a NSW Supreme Court case and conditions restricting a future return to the NRL without consent.

He had been prevented from returning to the NRL and faced a court dispute over a possible 2028 return to rugby league, tied to a release clause involving Parramatta.

Rugby Australia had previously offered Lomax salaries below his Parramatta deal, while talks with the Western Force continued amid interest from other leagues.

The Western Force plan to assess Lomax’s suitability, potentially deploying him on the wing or at outside centre to boost midfield drive and versatility.

Lomax brings a strong rugby league resume, including 58 NRL tries in 133 games and six State of Origin appearances, but his definitive position in union remains to be nailed down as he adapts to the 15-a-side game and the Wallabies pathway.

The move marks a major shift from the NRL to rugby union, with Lomax stepping away from a traditional league pathway for now.

Lomax expressed excitement about the challenge of changing codes, the chance to compete at a high level in rugby union, and the dream of potentially playing for the Wallabies.

An official announcement was anticipated within hours; Lomax is unlikely to play for the Western Force this week but could feature against the Chiefs in Perth on May 28.

A two-year contract has been signed between Zac Lomax, Rugby Australia and the Western Force, effective immediately, positioning him to potentially represent the Wallabies at the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Rugby Australia officials, including CEO Phil Waugh and High Performance Director Peter Horne, highlighted Lomax’s athletic pedigree and framed the move as part of a broader effort to strengthen Australian rugby ahead of the 2027 home World Cup.