The Wallaroos have continued their contract extensions, signing five critical signatures and locking down over 120 caps for their 2026 campaign.
World Cup stars Desiree Miller, Eva Karpani, Georgina Friedrichs, Maya Stewart and Waiaria Ellis have become the latest to commit to the national side, adding valuable experience and skill all across the park.
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Miller has become one of the side’s most high-profile stars since her 2023 debut, featuring in all 11 Test matches in the 2025 season and scoring eight tries, including a hat-trick against Samoa.
Karpani has also garnered attention worldwide for her barnstorming tries, being named Wallaroos player of the year in 2023.
She has continued her form after moving from the NSW Waratahs to the Queensland Reds in 2025, becoming the fourth player to earn 40 caps for her nation.
The re-signing of the two stars has been a welcome one as the side begins its development towards the 2029 Rugby World Cup, with General Manager of Women's Rugby Jilly Collins praising both stars.
"Desi's incredible consistency on the wing has been a standout feature over the past couple of seasons," she said.
"She is the only player to have worn the number 11 jersey since the start of the Test season in 2024, a run of 21 consecutive Test matches.
"Her attacking power is undeniable, highlighted by her six tries in just four matches at the Rugby World Cup. I am thrilled to see what the future holds for this star player.
“Eva has cemented her position as one of the most established and influential players in the squad.
“She is treasured by the rugby public in Australia and globally for her powerful, dynamic ball running and it's great to see her re-commit to the squad.”
Partnering Miller in the backline is arguably one of the most valuable signatures locked in for the 2026 season, with Georgina Friedrichs having a massive 2025 season, being crowned the 2025 Super Rugby Women’s player of the year.
Joining the backline will be the leading try-scorer for the Wallaroos, with Maya Stewart set to add significant attacking power fresh off a stint in the Australia A Sevens side in Dubai.
The Nelson Bay star was named player of the year for the Wallaroos in 2024 and leads the Super Rugby Women’s with the most tries in the competition’s history.
“The re-signing of Maya Stewart is a massive boost for the program,” Collins said.
“As one of a handful of players targeting the 2029 Rugby World Cup as her third tournament, she brings invaluable experience and professionalism to the squad.
“Her recent success as a key player in the Australia A Sevens team, which won the Women’s International Invitational competition in Dubai, demonstrates her continued development and impact.
“We have no doubt she will continue to shine brightly in the gold jersey.
“Georgina is a model of elite consistency at the top of her game.
“Her commitment is impressive and she repeatedly delivers when needed, which was perfectly underscored by her 2025 Super Rugby Women’s Player of the Year award.
“Despite the strong competition, she has firmly maintained possession of the crucial outside centre jersey and we are delighted she has secured her Wallaroos contract for 2026.”
Capping off the new signatures is Waiaria Ellis, the star making her debut in 2025 against the Black Ferns before going on to feature in matches across the World Cup.
The star also featured in the Australia A Sevens squad in their recent trip to Dubai, and is regarded as one of the side’s long-term utility options.
"At still only 18 years old, Waiaria’s recommitment to rugby union through 2026 is a great indication of her drive, desire and ambition in the game,” Collins added.
"The 2025 season was a massive year for her, featuring a Wallaroos debut in New Zealand, selection in the Rugby World Cup squad and competing for the Australia A Sevens team in Dubai.
"We are excited for what’s in store and how far she can take her game in 2026."
The quintet join over 35 stars who have committed to the Wallaroos program long term, with more announcements expected in the new year.
Desiree Miller
- Position: Wing
- DOB: 13/1/2002
- Junior Club: Eastern Suburbs
- 2025 Super Rugby Club: NSW Waratahs
Eva Karpani
- Position: Prop
- DOB: 18/6/1996
- Junior Club: Southern Suburbs
- 2025 Super Rugby Club: Queensland Reds
Georgina Friedrichs
- Position: Centre
- DOB: 14/4/1995
- Junior Club: Wests Bulldogs
- 2025 Super Rugby Club: NSW Waratahs
Maya Stewart
- Position: Wing
- DOB: 14/3/2000
- Junior Club: Nelson Bay Gropers
- 2025 Super Rugby Club: NSW Waratahs
Waiaria Ellis
- Position: Utility Back
- DOB: 11/9/2007
- Junior Club: Blacktown Scorpions
- 2025 Super Rugby Club: NSW Waratahs
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