Zac Lomax makes immediate switch from NRL to rugby union

The agreement follows a turbulent period for Lomax, who was prevented from joining another NRL club until 2028 after an unsuccessful attempt to leave Parramatta for the Melbourne Storm. That move came after his planned switch to breakaway competition R360 was postponed.

Originally from Temora, Lomax played junior representative rugby for NSW before launching a successful career in rugby league’s NRL.

A powerful winger and centre with a strong goal-kicking record, Lomax has represented St George-Illawarra and Parramatta at club level, as well as NSW in State of Origin and the Kangaroos in Test matches.

Lomax said: “I’m incredibly excited and thankful to be joining the Western Force after reaching an agreement with Rugby Australia to make the switch to rugby union.

“This is a huge opportunity and a challenge I’m really looking forward to embracing. Stepping into a new code will push me as a player and that’s something that genuinely motivates me.

“The chance to be part of what the Western Force are building and to test myself at the highest level of rugby union is something that really excites me. Like any player, the dream of one day representing the Wallabies on a truly international stage and potentially competing at a Rugby World Cup is a powerful motivation.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity and can’t wait to get started in Perth and begin this next chapter of my career.”

Western Force Head Coach Simon Cron said: “Zac and Kayla came to Perth late last year and we spent some time together talking about the Force and how we want to play.

“He has remained in contact during the process and has always been extremely enthusiastic about the opportunity of joining the players who have chosen Perth as their home.

“Anyone who has seen Zac play knows what he will add. Combine that with his drive and professionalism and I have no doubt he will be extremely successful.

“We are excited to get him started.”

Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh said: “Zac is a superb athlete with a proven track record at representative level in rugby league and we believe he has the talent and drive to make a successful transition to rugby.

“Zac brings a unique set of experiences and skills to our environment and is motivated by the challenge of competing in a truly global sport.

“We have entered an incredibly exciting period for Australian Rugby and Zac now has the opportunity to make a strong impression in Super Rugby Pacific and push for higher honours as we approach a home Rugby World Cup in 2027.”

Rugby Australia Director of High Performance Peter Horne said: “Building depth across Australian Rugby has been a priority as we build towards next year’s home Rugby World Cup and the addition of Zac is a positive development for our system.

“Zac is embracing the challenge of playing a new code, albeit one he has played before at a junior level, and the opportunity to take his talents to a worldwide audience.”