Rugby Australia aims to implement full-time professionalism for the Wallaroos by year-end, building a unified, integrated women’s program to prepare for the 2029 Women’s Rugby World Cup in Australia.

New chief appointments are expected soon, with Walsh assigning new head coaches for the Sevens and Wallaroos in the coming weeks.

Looking ahead, the team targets the 2028 Paris and 2032 Brisbane Olympics for sevens, using a unified, professional pathway to boost visibility and participation.

Kristy Giteau endorses the appointment, noting potential for a 2029 World Cup to mirror Matildas’ 2023 success in participation, stadium sell-outs, and media exposure.

Rugby Australia’s CEO emphasizes cross-format player integration and a sprint-like drive to reach a competitive standard for 2029, leveraging sevens strengths and broader talent pools.

Walsh will help select a Wallaroos coach and will join the Rugby Australia executive, with plans for about 20 Wallaroos on full-time contracts by year-end.

The restructuring aims to maximise commercial value, retain talent, and unify the brand ahead of major events like the 2028 LA Olympics and the 2029 home World Cup.

Walsh, famed for turning Australian women’s Sevens into a full-time program and winning Olympic gold, is expected to apply that model to both 15s and Sevens through shared systems.

With the Wallaroos currently ranked ninth and having not reached World Cup quarter-finals since 2010, Walsh’s leadership is seen as a catalyst for rapid improvement before 2029.

The move signals a long-term strategic pivot toward sustained global success and a stronger commercial footing for Rugby Australia’s women’s programs.

Consolidation is timed to provide sponsors with a single recognizable brand across XVs and Sevens ahead of the 2029 home World Cup.

Tim Walsh has been appointed as Rugby Australia’s Director of Women’s High Performance, overseeing Wallaroos and 15-a-side pathways to accelerate professionalism and success.