Coach Joe Schmidt will take charge of the Australian Wallabies for the last time on Saturday, July 18, 2026, as they face Italy in the Nations Championship in Perth. Italy has made nine changes to its starting XV following a 47-17 defeat to the All Blacks in Wellington last weekend. Among the changes, Australia-born winger Monty Ioane returns to the squad, replacing Malik Faissal, while Louis Lynagh retains his position on the opposite wing.

Italy's coach Gonzalo Quesada will be absent due to a two-Test ban imposed for his comments on refereeing and World Rugby's scheduling. Both Italy and the Wallabies have yet to secure a win in this Nations Championship season.

Schmidt has adjusted his matchday squad following the Wallabies' 42-26 loss to France in Brisbane last Saturday. His tenure has seen notable victories, including a 38-22 win over the Springboks at Ellis Park in August 2025 and a 42-37 upset against England at Twickenham in 2024. It is also recognized that Schmidt took over after the Wallabies' disappointing 2023 Rugby World Cup campaign, where they failed to advance from the pool stage under former coach Eddie Jones.

The match represents an opportunity for Schmidt to send the Wallabies out on a winning note.

Sources