Australia have been forced to head to market and look for their fifth head coach in six years after Joe Schmidt decided to walk away from the top job towards the end of the year. So, who will replace him?

Michael Cheika met with Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh on Tuesday, raising speculation the former Australia boss is among candidates to succeed Joe Schmidt at the helm of the Wallabies.

Joe Schmidt has agreed to continue as head coach of the Wallabies until after the 2025 Rugby Championship to allow Rugby Australia time to recruit a replacement.

Michael Cheika appears to be in the running to return to his former role as Wallabies head coach after he was seen having a meeting with Rugby Australia (RA) chief executive Phil Waugh recently.

Wallabies head coach Joe Schmidt will step down at the end of this year’s Rugby Championship, with Australia announcing Thursday they would immediately begin the search for his successor. The 59-year-old New Zealander’s original contract had been due to expire at the end of the British and Irish Lions tour in early August.

Michael Cheika's meeting with Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh has fueled speculation about him potentially succeeding Joe Schmidt as Wallabies coach. Cheika, who previously coached Australia and now coaches Leicester Tigers,

October 4, 2025 will mark the final time Joe Schmidt coaches the Wallabies as he departs the position at the end of the Rugby Championship. The Kiwi-born Schmidt has only been in the role just over a year but his impact has been felt dramatically during his time.

Michael Cheika remains in the mix to return for a second stint as Wallabies coach after meeting with Rugby Australia's boss.