Les Kiss is "humbled" by the upcoming opportunity to coach Australia.

The Wallabies will have a new coach from midway through 2026, with Kiss to take over from Joe Schmidt.

Kiss will also oversee the Wallabies at the 2027 Rugby World Cup, which will be hosted in Australia.

"It's an incredibly exciting time for Australian rugby, and I am humbled by the opportunity to serve as Wallabies head coach from next year," said Kiss, who will remain in his role as Queensland Reds head coach before taking over the national team.

"Joe and I have a strong relationship and a long history of working together, and I am looking forward to building upon the excellent foundations he has laid with the Wallabies.

"I am thrilled to continue with the Reds for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season before transitioning into the Wallabies environment. To coach our national team through such an important period, highlighted by a home Rugby World Cup in 2027, is the honour of a lifetime and an opportunity I am truly grateful for.

"I look forward to contributing to the continued growth of Australian Rugby."

We're pleased to announce the appointment of Les Kiss as our next Head Coach from mid-2026, with Joe Schmidt continuing in the role until that time 

More details https://t.co/uYMC8GmfUZ#Wallabies pic.twitter.com/KSSBxSbhrd

— Wallabies (@wallabies) April 29, 2025

Former Ireland and New Zealand boss Schmidt took charge in January 2024, but said in February that he would be leaving the role after the Rugby Championship later this year.

However, Schmidt has been convinced to stay on and lead the Wallabies into the inaugural addition of the Nations Championship.

"My intention to finish at the end of this year's Rugby Championship has been adjusted to fit with Les's availability," Schmidt said.

"I think he's doing a great job with the Reds, so it was important to dovetail with his responsibilities there.

"It has certainly been a privilege to be involved with the Wallabies – the staff and players have worked hard, but we all know there's a lot more hard work ahead of us with the British and Irish Lions here in a few months' time."

Kiss previously worked under Schmidt as an assistant coach for Ireland. He will be Australia's fifth head coach in the space of seven years.