Wallabies coach Robbie Deans has signed a two-year contract extension with the Australian Rugby Union.

The New Zealand Herald reports Deans was initially installed in the role for a four-year term from 2008 through to the end of the World Cup season and, under his new deal, he will remain until late 2013.

The move by the Union is sure to be questioned in some circles, coming before the Wallabies World Cup campaign starting next month.

The World Cup has long been cited as Deans' main goal as he rebuilt the Wallabies squad and the re signing is a show of confidence, given that the results are yet to be seen.

Deans said he was looking forward to continuing with the Wallabies beyond this year as he is pleased to have gained the backing of the board.