Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Justin Harrison

Justin Harrison (born 20 April 1974) is an former professional player, , and , best known for his role as a lock in the Australian national team, the Wallabies, where he earned 34 Test caps between 2001 and 2004. A specialist in lineout play, Harrison gained international acclaim for a pivotal lineout steal during the third Test of the 2001 British and Irish Lions tour to , securing a 29-23 victory and series win for the Wallabies. He started in the against England, contributing to 's triumphant 20-17 overtime win, and played every Test match for the Wallabies in both 2002 and 2004. Harrison also featured prominently in , making 98 appearances for the and , including helping the Brumbies claim the 2001 Super 12 title. Born in and educated at Newman High School in , Harrison followed an unconventional path to professional , initially representing the Australian Under-21 team and participating in an Australian tour before debuting for the Wallabies in 2001 against the Lions. His club career included stints with the , Tuggeranong Vikings, and Eastwood District in , followed by overseas moves to in Ireland and in after 2004. Retiring from playing in 2010, Harrison transitioned into administration and media; he served as president of the Rugby Union Players' Association (RUPA) before becoming its in August 2019, a position he continues to hold as of 2025. In addition to his executive role, Harrison has established himself as a respected pundit and commentator on television, providing analysis for major matches and series. He also works as a , drawing on his experiences from the 2003 victory, the 2001 Lions series, and the to inspire audiences on themes of , , and leadership.

Early life and education

Upbringing in Sydney

Justin Harrison was born on 20 April 1974 in , . He attended Newman High School in , where he developed an early interest in sports. Harrison later became the first alumnus from the school to represent the Australian national team, the Wallabies, achieving this milestone in 2001. In 1994, he joined the Tuggeranong Vikings Rugby Union Club in the Australian Capital Territory, marking his entry into more competitive youth rugby. This move paved the way for his selection to higher-level youth teams, including the ACT Under-21s that same year.

University studies and initial rugby involvement

Harrison began his university education at Southern Cross University in Lismore in 1993, where he was introduced to rugby union for the first time at the age of 19. Joining the SCU Gold Rats club team, he received his initial structured training in the sport, transitioning from a novice to a competitive player and establishing himself as a lock forward with an early focus on lineout specialization. Building on these beginnings, Harrison represented the Australian Universities team, competing at a national level and refining his combative style as a mobile lock. In 1995, his progress earned him selection for the Australian Under-21s squad, marking a significant in his youth development and highlighting his potential in the second row position. Harrison continued his higher education at the , enrolling in a in Sports Administration, a program that aligned with his growing interest in the administrative aspects of . He graduated from this degree in 2001, having balanced rigorous academic study with ongoing rugby commitments that solidified his expertise in lineout tactics and forward play.

Playing career

Australian domestic and Super Rugby teams

Prior to his Super Rugby debut, Harrison represented club sides including the and Tuggeranong Vikings. Justin Harrison began his professional rugby career with the in the Super 12 competition, making his debut in 1997. He played with the Brumbies through the 2004 season, establishing himself as a key lock in the forward pack known for his lineout expertise and physical presence. During this period, Harrison was instrumental in the team's 2001 Super 12 championship victory, starting in the grand final against the and helping secure a 36-6 win. In 2004, Harrison transferred to the NSW Waratahs, where he competed for two seasons in the . His time with the Waratahs included participation in the 2005 final, though the team fell short against the Crusaders. Across his Super Rugby tenure with both the Brumbies and Waratahs, Harrison accumulated 98 appearances, reflecting his durability and consistency at the domestic professional level. Harrison briefly returned to the Brumbies in 2010 on a one-year contract following a , providing cover in the second row during the Super 14 season. This stint marked a short comeback to after overseas commitments. Concurrently, Harrison represented the Eastwood Rugby Union Club in Sydney's competition, aligning with his Waratahs affiliation and contributing to the club's premier domestic efforts.

International career with the Wallabies

Justin Harrison earned 34 Test caps for the Australian national team, the Wallabies, between 2001 and 2004, during which he scored one try worth 5 points. His international career began with a memorable debut in the third Test against the British and Irish Lions on 14 July 2001 in , where Australia secured a 29–23 victory to clinch the series 2–1; Harrison, playing as a lock, stole a crucial lineout from Lions captain Martin Johnson in the final minutes, preventing a potential match-winning try and cementing his place in Wallabies folklore. This performance highlighted his specialization as the team's primary lineout forward, a role he filled with precision and aggression throughout his tenure. In 2002, Harrison participated in every one of the Wallabies' 10 Test matches, starting nine of them and scoring his sole international try against in during a 25–10 win. His consistency as a combative in the second row provided vital physicality and set-piece dominance, contributing to a mixed year that included a series victory over but losses to , , and . Harrison's domestic experience with the had prepared him for this demanding schedule, allowing him to adapt quickly to the intensity of international rugby. Harrison's pinnacle came during the in , where he featured in all five of the Wallabies' matches, starting as lock in the quarter-final against (33–22 win), the semi-final against (22–10 win), and the final against (17–20 loss after extra time). His lineout expertise was instrumental in disrupting opposition throws and securing possession, while his enforcer role added intimidation and mobility to the forward pack under captain . Returning in 2004 for his final international season, Harrison started all 12 Tests, including series wins over , , and , before retiring from Test rugby at age 30 to pursue opportunities abroad. Over his career, the Wallabies won 22 of his 34 appearances, drew one, and lost 11, reflecting his impact on a competitive era.

European club career

Following the conclusion of his international career with the Wallabies in 2004, Justin Harrison pursued professional opportunities in , signing a contract with ahead of the 2005–06 season. During his three-year tenure with the Irish province, he made 72 appearances and scored 10 points across the (now PRO14) and Heineken Cup. Harrison captained Ulster to victory in the 2006 title, lifting the trophy as stand-in skipper in a 21–10 win over at Ravenhill. As a formidable lock, he brought his renowned lineout expertise to the team, contributing to effective set-piece strategies that bolstered Ulster's performances in domestic and European competitions. Adapting to life abroad presented challenges, including navigating a new , but Harrison noted strong parallels between Ulster's resilient identity—shaped by historical adversity—and Australian rugby culture, describing as a "very special part of my life" where his family integrated deeply, with his sons later obtaining Irish passports. In 2008, Harrison transferred to English club for the 2008–09 season, where he featured in 30 matches in the Premiership and Heineken Cup, scoring no points. His integration into the squad was initially positive, with the veteran lock providing leadership and physicality in the second row, but his stint was abruptly curtailed in May 2009 when he departed the club amid an internal misconduct investigation. This followed revelations of use during an end-of-season trip, resulting in an eight-month suspension from the , which further complicated his adaptation to English and living abroad. Harrison returned to professional play later in , joining for a stint from 2011 to 2013 in the league, where he made 20 appearances without scoring. This period marked a transitional phase in his , blending playing duties with emerging coaching responsibilities, while continuing to adjust to expatriate life in alongside his family.

Post-playing career

Coaching positions

Following his return to the as a player for the 2010 season, Harrison transitioned into coaching with the club, taking on the role of forwards coach in 2011 on a two-year contract. In this position, he applied his expertise as a former Wallabies lock to enhance the team's forward dynamics, including lineout strategies honed during his international playing career. Later that year, Harrison relocated , where he was appointed of Racing Club Narbonne Méditerranée, a role he held for nearly six years until 2016. His tenure emphasized rigorous training and cost-cutting measures to stabilize the club's finances while rebuilding competitiveness in the league. Under Harrison's leadership, climbed to fifth place in the standings after 18 rounds of the 2013–14 season, marking a period of improved fitness and tactical discipline informed by his prior playing stints.

Executive role at RUPA

During his playing career, Justin Harrison served as of the Players' Association (RUPA) from 2004 to 2005, advocating for players' rights while actively competing in and international matches. In August 2019, Harrison was appointed of RUPA, a role he continues to hold as of 2025, succeeding Brett Robinson and drawing on his prior experience as RUPA and of the Classic Wallabies. Under his leadership, RUPA has focused on enhancing player welfare through initiatives such as the 2020 partnership with Benestar, which provides confidential counseling for personal, , and family issues to players, staff, and their families. Additionally, in 2024, RUPA launched a Health Service in collaboration with , offering free health screenings and support for former players addressing potential long-term impacts of the sport. Harrison has overseen key contract negotiations, including the amended Collective Bargaining Agreement () in 2021, which provided financial stability amid disruptions, and the 2023-2026 that increased minimum payments for women's players and restored performance bonuses for the Wallabies. These agreements emphasize equitable revenue distribution and protections for professional participants in . On , Harrison has championed programs integrating psychological support into player development, noting in 2019 the growing prioritization of mental wellbeing among emerging Australian talents during national training camps. In 2024, RUPA renewed its partnership with to bolster wellbeing resources across the ecosystem. Harrison's effectiveness in these executive responsibilities is supported by his in Sports Administration from the , completed in 2001, which provided foundational knowledge in organizational management and policy within the sports industry. This academic background, combined with his transition from coaching roles in and to full-time administration, has enabled him to navigate complex stakeholder dynamics in Australian .

Broadcasting and media work

After retiring from playing, Justin Harrison transitioned into broadcasting, establishing himself as a prominent rugby union commentator known for his insightful analysis of forward play. He joined the Sport commentary team, where he provides expert coverage of , domestic matches, and international fixtures, drawing on his extensive experience as a former Wallabies lock to offer detailed breakdowns of lineout strategies and set-piece tactics. Harrison's media presence extends to podcasts and television shows, where he frequently discusses Wallabies history, modern trends, and tactical evolutions. Notable appearances include episodes of The Good, The Bad & The Rugby, where he shared anecdotes from his 2001 Test debut and the Lions series, and the DSPN podcast in October 2025, analyzing dynamics and refereeing challenges. He has also contributed to Fox Rugby Podcast discussions on Brumbies camp insights and broader Australian development. In November 2025, Harrison critiqued Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt's selection decisions in media analysis, highlighting concerns over team consistency. His historical insights, often referencing iconic plays like his own 2001 Lions lineout steal, add depth to contemporary analysis, emphasizing the enduring importance of forward dominance in Test .

Personal life

Marriages and family

Harrison was first married to Janneke, with whom he relocated to in 2005 as part of his professional career with . The marriage ended in separation around 2006, after which Janneke returned to . Following the dissolution of his first marriage, Harrison remarried and established a family in , with whom he has two sons. Since 2019, he has resided in with his wife and sons. The family maintains close ties to through his wife's heritage, as her grandfather was from in , and their sons hold Irish passports. Harrison's family life has been shaped by the relocations demanded by his career, from to and back, yet he has continued to balance these professional demands with family commitments in .

Mental health challenges and advocacy

Following the breakdown of his first marriage around 2006, former Wallabies player Justin Harrison experienced severe challenges, including . During this period, while playing for , he struggled with depression, turning to alcohol, antidepressants, and sleeping tablets, which he described as creating a " of and greyness." In a particularly low moment in that summer, Harrison contemplated ending his life, feeling that he was "not really needed anymore," but was intervened upon by a stranger, Australian fan Peter Maiden, who recognized him in a bar and provided crucial emotional support over the following two weeks, ultimately preventing tragedy. Harrison publicly disclosed his experiences in 2017 interviews, prompted by the suicides of fellow players and others, which highlighted broader issues within . He linked his personal struggles to the sport's "" culture and the pressures of transitioning from high-performance , emphasizing how family separation exacerbated his isolation. This revelation came amid a wave of player tragedies, underscoring the need for systemic support in the rugby community. Drawing from his own ordeal, Harrison has advocated for improved resources for rugby players through his role at the Rugby Union Players' Association (RUPA), where he served as president before becoming chief executive in 2019. Under his leadership, RUPA has integrated workshops, seminars, and education programs into player development camps, fostering open discussions and collaborative efforts with to build wellbeing systems. He has highlighted the progress among younger players in prioritizing , viewing it as a critical shift toward prevention and support. Harrison continues to promote awareness of in , participating in initiatives like the 2017 all-star game at Allianz Park to support Restart Rugby's #LiftTheWeight campaign against . His efforts emphasize that "striving for life should always outweigh ending it," using personal testimony to encourage and access to professional help within the world.

References

  1. [1]
    Justin Brendan Gregory Harrison | Player Profile - Classic Wallabies
    Harrison played every Test in both 2002 and 2004 and he was in the run-on XV for the 2003 Rugby World Cup final. Justin Harrison played 34 Tests for Australia ...
  2. [2]
    Harrison's unconventional army tale - RUGBY.com.au
    Apr 22, 2016 · Harrison, known best for his incredible lineout steal in the 2001 British and Irish Lions series, stumbled across a military stint after being ...
  3. [3]
    Justin Harrison - Event Speakers - Australia
    Justin played 98 Super Rugby appearances for the Brumbies and NSW Waratahs, winning a Super Rugby title in 2001. He took his career abroad in 2005, representing ...Missing: biography | Show results with:biography
  4. [4]
    RUPA Staff - The Rugby Union Players' Association
    Former RUPA President, Wallaby No. 770 Justin Harrison, was appointed Chief Executive Officer in August 2019. Harrison, who served as RUPA President from ...Missing: current | Show results with:current
  5. [5]
    'Poked the bear': Lions told to mind their own business - Nine
    Jun 25, 2025 · Justin Harrison, the chief executive of Australia's Rugby Union Players' Association, has told the British and Irish Lions to mind their own business.
  6. [6]
    The Offload: Justin Harrison far from a plank in the commentary box
    Oct 4, 2021 · Justin Harrison, the former Australian international secondrow, once labelled a “plank,”, “plod” and an “ape” by former England and Lions scrumhalf Austin ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  7. [7]
    Justin Harrison - Celebrity Speakers
    In 2003, Justin Harrison's dream was to play for Australia in a Rugby World Cup Final. As numerous experts called for older players heads, like a true ...Missing: achievements | Show results with:achievements<|control11|><|separator|>
  8. [8]
    Justin Harrison | Ultimate Rugby Players, News, Fixtures and Live ...
    Justin Harrison became the first Wallaby from Newman High School, Sydney, in July 2001 when he debut against the British and Irish Lions Tour to Australia.
  9. [9]
    OUA Dream XV: Justin Harrison
    Oct 29, 2020 · He played in the Rugby World Cup in 2003 before moving to the NSW Waratahs in 2004 and playing for Eastwood Rugby Union Club in Sydney. The ...Missing: biography | Show results with:biography
  10. [10]
    Former Wallabies star Justin Harrison gives keynote speech to ...
    Australian rugby union star Justin Harrison addresses graduating SCU students. Mr Harrison encouraged the graduates to embrace the new chapter of their lives. " ...Missing: studies | Show results with:studies
  11. [11]
    Exclusive: Justin Harrison agrees to play for Brumbies - The Roar
    Nov 28, 2009 · Harrison made his Super Rugby debut with the Brumbies in 1997. He became a Wallaby in 2001 in the third Test against the British and Irish ...Missing: caps | Show results with:caps
  12. [12]
    Justin Harrison joins Brumbies for 2010 Super 14 season
    Nov 30, 2009 · He played 69 matches for the ACT side, including a starting berth during the victorious 2001 Super 12 final.
  13. [13]
    Harrison moves to the Waratahs - ABC News
    Jun 24, 2003 · Harrison played 80 times for the ACT, including 69 in the Super 12, and says the highlight was the 2001 Super 12 title.<|control11|><|separator|>
  14. [14]
    Justin Harrison Rugby Bio | News, Stats, Team, Height, Age
    Born 20 April 1974, Justin Harrison made his debut for the Brumbies in 1997 and featured in the side that claimed the Super 12 title in 2001.
  15. [15]
    Harrison to return to Brumbies - ABC News
    Nov 29, 2009 · The Brumbies have agreed to terms with former player and Wallabies lock Justin Harrison for the next Super 14 season.
  16. [16]
    Wallaby goes from long-shot 'Leo' to Lions series hero
    Jul 30, 2025 · Justin Harrison relives his infamous lineout steal that helped the Wallabies claim an historic series victory over the British and Irish Lions.
  17. [17]
    Justin HARRISON - International Rugby Union Caps for Australia.
    Justin Harrison - Australia - International Rugby Union Caps for Australia. ... DATE OF BIRTH Saturday, 20 April 1974; PLACE OF BIRTH Sydney, Australia.
  18. [18]
    Justin HARRISON - Player statistics - It's rugby
    Justin HARRISON is an international australian rugby player at the lock position.He was born on 20/04/1974. He measures 2 m 03 for 110 kg.
  19. [19]
    Harrison On His Way To Bath - Irish Rugby
    Feb 26, 2008 · The 33-year-old was Ulster's stand-in captain when they lifted the Magners League title in 2006. Google Ad Manager – 300×250 – In Article. After ...
  20. [20]
    Justin Harrison on his part in Wallabies' epic defeat of Lions in 2001
    Jul 19, 2025 · The former Australia international on his career-defining Test debut ... After his 34-cap Test career, Harrison went to Ulster in 2005 for ...
  21. [21]
    Justin Harrison leaves Bath with immediate effect | Prem Rugby
    May 19, 2009 · The lock Justin Harrison has left Bath to return to Australia, pre-empting an internal misconduct investigation.Missing: 2008-2009 appearances
  22. [22]
    Justin Harrison banned for eight months after cocaine admission | Bath
    Jul 20, 2009 · Justin Harrison is banned for eight months after admitting to an RFU hearing that he took cocaine on the night of Bath's end-of-season ...
  23. [23]
    Justin Harrison joins Classic Wallabies as General Manager
    Jan 17, 2019 · Harrison brings a wealth of experience in both Rugby and business. Wallaby #770 played 34 Tests for Australia following his 2001 debut against ...Missing: notable achievements
  24. [24]
    Narbonne say 'merci' to the Australians - ESPN Singapore
    Feb 12, 2014 · Harrison, brought in as head coach, was responsible for implementing the cost-cutting policies. Rigorous and demanding, Harrison has been able ...Missing: contributions achievements<|control11|><|separator|>
  25. [25]
    Justin Harrison and co whip Narbonne into shape
    Jan 31, 2014 · As the coaching career of former Wallaby Justin Harrison continues to rise, so does the ambition of his French club, Narbonne, ...Missing: 2011-2013 | Show results with:2011-2013
  26. [26]
    Former Wallabies star lands new gig as Aussie players' boss
    Aug 21, 2019 · Former Australian lock and Classic Wallabies Manager Justin Harrison has been appointed as the Rugby Union Players' Association new CEO.Missing: 2004-2009 | Show results with:2004-2009
  27. [27]
    Harrison appointed RUPA CEO - RUGBY.com.au
    Aug 20, 2019 · Classic Wallabies boss and former Test lock Justin Harrison has been revealed as the new Rugby Union Players' Association (RUPA) CEO.Missing: 2004-2009 | Show results with:2004-2009<|separator|>
  28. [28]
    Rugby teams up to tackle health and wellbeing in new partnership ...
    Feb 3, 2020 · Players, staff and their families can access free personal, confidential support, guidance, and counsel, to navigate their way through life.Missing: welfare | Show results with:welfare
  29. [29]
    World Rugby and The Australian Rugby Players' Association launch ...
    Apr 21, 2024 · RUPA are today launching a new Brain Health Service to support former rugby union players to undergo a health screening process.
  30. [30]
    Rugby Australia and RUPA agree to amended collective bargaining ...
    Feb 4, 2021 · The amended CBA is effective immediately and runs through to the end of 2021 and provides clarity for all professional Rugby stakeholders ahead of the new ...
  31. [31]
    Rugby Australia, Super Rugby Clubs and Players finalise new CBA
    Mar 15, 2023 · Rugby Union Players Association CEO Justin Harrison: “The Rugby Union ecosystem has dealt with many challenges in recent times, this sixth CBA ...
  32. [32]
    Rugby AU, Super Rugby Clubs & RUPA confirm collective ...
    Feb 9, 2022 · Rugby AU, Super Rugby Clubs & RUPA confirm collective bargaining agreement for 2022 ... RUPA Chief Executive Justin Harrison said: “The ...
  33. [33]
    Top of mind: RUPA boss applauds mental health focus of young ...
    Dec 27, 2019 · Rugby Union Players' Association chief executive Justin Harrison was thrilled to see the bulk of Australia's next generation of stars put mental ...Missing: initiatives welfare
  34. [34]
    TELUS Health reaffirms partnership with Rugby Australia
    Sep 5, 2024 · RUPA CEO Justin Harrison says: "This partnership highlights the critical importance of providing wellbeing support within our Rugby ecosystem.Missing: welfare | Show results with:welfare
  35. [35]
    Nine and Stan assemble stellar commentary line-up for a new era of ...
    Joining them will be a team of former Wallaby superstars including Tim Horan, Morgan Turinui, Drew Mitchell and Justin Harrison, former All-Black legend Andrew ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  36. [36]
    EXPERT ANALYSIS: Lineout guru Justin Harrison explains what ...
    Aug 22, 2018 · RUGBY.com.au asked former Wallabies lock and respected lineout guru Justin Harrison to analyse each of the moments, and explain what went wrong.
  37. [37]
    Justin Harrison - Wallabies Gr…–DSPN - Apple Podcasts
    Oct 1, 2025 · Wallabies legend Justin Harrison joins Martin Devlin on the DSPN for a lively, wide-ranging chat that blends rugby memories with reflections ...
  38. [38]
    The Good, The Bad & The Rugby - Apple Podcasts
    The BIG 2nd Test Preview - Lions v Australia. Join Alex Payne, James Haskell, and Mike Tindall from Melbourne, with special guest Wallabies legend Justin ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  39. [39]
    Inside Brumbies Camp with Tom Banks - Fox Rugby Podcast
    Inside Brumbies Camp with Tom Banks | Justin Harrison's rugby mission across Australia | Jason Gilmore readies for U20's World Championship Final · Share · Embed.
  40. [40]
    Justin Harrison on Instagram
    Jul 24, 2025 · The talent is stacked ✨ The best analysis and commentary team for Italy v Wallabies is on Stan Sport!Missing: commentator | Show results with:commentator
  41. [41]
    Inside story: How Justin Harrison's Lions lineout steal made history
    Jul 23, 2025 · ... studying at the University of Canberra. Sidelined, he continued working out in the gym to keep fit and even went to Melbourne for surgery ...
  42. [42]
    Unlocking Justin Harrison | BelfastTelegraph.co.uk
    May 2, 2008 · Yet behind the scenes, Harrison's personal life was in turmoil following the separation from his wife Janneke, who had returned to Sydney that ...
  43. [43]
    Ulster life rekindles a wiser Harrison's hunger for the game
    Oct 19, 2005 · At that point it would have been reasonable for Harrison's wife, Janneke, to sit him down and thank him warmly for taking her to a place where, ...Missing: Portrush | Show results with:Portrush
  44. [44]
    Sport's mental health crisis: Justin Harrison - 'A stranger saved me ...
    May 4, 2017 · Justin Harrison, the former Australia forward, considered suicide during his playing career following the breakdown of his first marriage.Missing: background siblings
  45. [45]
    Justin Harrison opens up on suicide | Daily Mail Online
    May 4, 2017 · Former Australian rugby star Justin Harrison, 43, has opened up on considering suicide after his marriage ended- until a stranger he met at ...Missing: upbringing | Show results with:upbringing
  46. [46]
    Ex-Bath Rugby lock Justin Harrison admits he considered suicide ...
    May 5, 2017 · He now wants to encourage the rugby community to confront mental health issues. There will be an all-star game at Allianz Park on June 30 in ...Missing: challenges advocacy
  47. [47]
    Former Wallabies enforcer Justin Harrison reveals how stranger in ...
    May 4, 2017 · Former Wallabies forward Justin Harrison has revealed how a stranger in a New York bar prevented him from committing suicide.
  48. [48]
    RUPA boss applauds mental health focus of young players
    Dec 27, 2019 · Unlike in previous camps, mental health was overwhelmingly viewed as critically important, leaving Harrison buoyed by the responses and hopeful ...Missing: initiatives welfare