Wallabies and Rebels star Dane Haylett-Petty has signed a two-year deal with Rugby Australia (RA), extending his stay until the end of 2021.

Haylett-Petty, 29, has played 31 Tests for the Wallabies since making his debut against England in 2016.

"I've really enjoyed my time in Melbourne since arriving last year. This environment has really helped me develop as a player on the field, and as a leader off the field," the Rebels captain said in a statement.

"I wanted to do what was best for my development as a rugby player, and that was to stay here in Australia and to continue my journey here at the Rebels and Wallabies.

"We have a lot left to achieve at an international level and I want to contribute to the best of my ability. The World Cup is a major goal, of course, but this season we've already spoken about how important the Rugby Championship is and how much we want to get our hands on the Bledisloe Cup for all of Australia.

"There's no bigger honour – and challenge – than representing your country and competing against the best teams and players in the world."

DANE HAYLETT-PETTY RE-SIGNED

As just revealed on SEN, Dane Haylett-Petty has put pen to paper and agreed to stay on in Melbourne. pic.twitter.com/B5EuWfU7zD
— Melbourne Rebels (@MelbourneRebels) February 20, 2019

Outside back Haylett-Petty has already played abroad, having featured for Biarritz in France and the Tokyo Shokki Shuttles in Japan.

Wallabies coach Michael Cheika believes those experiences have helped the South Africa-born star.

"Dane is a real competitor and has quickly stepped up to the standard of Test footy," he said.

"The outside backs are a really competitive position in our side and Dane often leads the way in how he prepares during the week and his commitment during games on the weekend.

"He's had that experience overseas, which has helped mature him as a footballer and I know how desperate he is to have a big part to play in the World Cup later this year."

RA also announced former Australia league and union international Michael O'Connor had been appointed as a selector, joining Cheika and incoming director of rugby Scott Johnson.