Dave Rennie to take over as Australia rugby coach

SYDNEY - New Zealander Dave Rennie is set to take the reins as head coach of Australia's national rugby union team, signing a three-and-a-half-year deal that will see the 55-year-old lead the Wallabies through to the 2023 World Cup.

Currently coaching Scottish team Glasgow, Australian rugby's governing body announced on Wednesday that Rennie would arrive Down Under when his contract expires in June next year.

In the meantime, Wallabies assistant coaches and Director of Rugby Scott Johnson will take control of the side.

Rennie was among the favorites to take the top job after the departure of Michael Chieka following a disappointing World Cup campaign in Japan, and Rugby Australia CEO Raelene Castle described the signing as a "massive coup".

"Dave Rennie was the clear standout candidate for the job, and we're thrilled to have secured his services," she said.

"Dave's coaching philosophy focuses equally on football and team culture, the key pillars to building sustainable success in any team."

"He has a proven track record in the Northern and Southern Hemisphere."

Taking the New Zealand under 20's side to three world titles between 2008 to 2010, in 2012 Rennie became the first-ever coach to win the Super Rugby Championship in his first season.

The coach then repeated the feat, taking Hamilton's Chiefs to another title the following year.

"I've been coaching professionally for over 20 years and wherever I've gone, I've immersed myself in the community and culture. I believe I can make a difference here," Rennie said.

"There are some outstanding young men coming through the schools system. I want to create a strong connection with the Super Rugby and national age grade coaches and help them achieve their goals, which will benefit the Wallabies in time."