# Darius Boyd appointed Queensland Maroons coach

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/queensland-maroons-coaching-vacancy
> Updated: 2026-09-03T04:24:35.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 3.

Billy Slater has resigned from his position as the Queensland Maroons State of Origin mentor. While Slater will remain a part-time specialist coach with the Melbourne Storm through next season, his departure has prompted Queensland officials to begin a search for a replacement.

The search for a successor faced setbacks as primary candidates Cameron Smith and Kevin Walters declined the role. Smith stated the head coaching position is not for him at this time, while Walters intends to fulfill his commitment as the Australia Test coach. Following these declines, Matt Ballin and Ben Te’o emerged as leading candidates.

Following a 2-1 series defeat to New South Wales in the State of Origin, Darius Boyd has been appointed as the new Queensland Maroons coach on a two-year deal. Boyd, a former Maroons player, moves into the senior role after leading the Queensland under-19 side to consecutive series victories in 2025 and 2026. Queensland Rugby League chair Brian Canavan praised Boyd’s development as a leader and his commitment to the state’s pathways system.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-03: Darius Boyd appointed as new Queensland Maroons coach

Darius Boyd has signed a two-year deal as the new Queensland Maroons coach, succeeding Billy Slater following a State of Origin series defeat.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/darius-boyd-appointed-as-new-queensland-maroons-coach

### 2026-08-17: Queensland Maroons face coaching search after Smith and Walters decline roles

Queensland Maroons legends Cameron Smith and Kevin Walters have both ruled themselves out of the race to succeed Billy Slater as head coach.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/queensland-maroons-face-coaching-search-after-smith-and-walters-decline-roles

### 2026-08-15: Billy Slater resigns as Queensland State of Origin mentor

Billy Slater has resigned as the Queensland Maroons State of Origin mentor. Melbourne Storm officials denied rumors that the move was intended to secure him as a future head coach.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/billy-slater-resigns-as-queensland-state-of-origin-mentor

---
Cite as: Darius Boyd appointed Queensland Maroons coach. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/queensland-maroons-coaching-vacancy