Queensland's rookie Super 14 coach Phil Mooney has been appointed to guide Australia A in the IRB Pacific Nations Cup tournament.

Mooney, who replaces outgoing Brumbies head coach Laurie Fisher in the role, is rewarded after helping the struggling Reds to an improved season in his first year at the helm.

The 42-year-old guided the Australian Under-19 team to the world title in 2006 and his new role suggests the Australian Rugby Union see him as a potential future Wallabies coach.

"It's a great honour and responsibility," said Mooney, 42.

"It's also and opportunity to work with more of the country's top players.

"I have enjoyed enormously my first Super Rugby season with the Reds.

"I'm now looking forward to expanding on that experience in another high-quality competition with Australia A.

"This promises to be a new start for Australian rugby under Wallabies coach Robbie Deans and I'm excited to be part of the way forward with the Australia A program this season.

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