Wallabies assistant coach Michael Foley will join the Waratahs coaching staff next season after signing a three-year deal with NSW Rugby.

The former Test hooker will end a three-season stint with the national team when he takes on a new role as a Waratahs forwards coach from January.

"I have enjoyed my time with the Wallabies immensely and there is still much to be done over the next few months," Foley said.

"Looking further ahead, what this opportunity with the Waratahs provides is an appealing opportunity to be at home more frequently.

"With four children, that's very important to me and my family.

"The travel demands over the past three seasons have been extensive."

Waratahs coach Chris Hickey said Foley's acquisition would provide continuity in the coaching ranks.

"Michael's been working hard with our forwards for some time now and we've seen the results in the Waratahs set piece play and scrummaging in particular," Hickey said.

"During the Super 14 Michael has been a familiar face around the place so to know that we've got him full time now is a major coup for NSW Rugby."

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