Former All Black joins Wallabies coaching ranks
Donnelly replaces outgoing assistant coach Geoff Parling, who will return to the UK after next week's third and final Test against the British & Irish Lions.
He played 15 Tests for the All Blacks, close to 100 Super Rugby matches, and three seasons in France before he moved into coaching.
The 43-year-old was with the Western Force for the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season and was previously an assistant coach at the Highlanders.
Donnelly said he was honoured to have the opportunity to contribute to the Australian national side.
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"Watching from afar, the journey the team is on and the improvement they are making is exciting. I'm looking forward to rolling up my sleeves and doing my part to continue the ongoing growth of the team."
Rugby Australia high performance director Peter Horne said Donnelly's expertise around the lineout and set piece would be "highly valuable" for the Wallabies.
"He's got a great understanding of the current Super Rugby Pacific landscape as well as experience playing at the highest level which makes him a great fit for the role."
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