Joe Powell leaves Super Rugby winners ACT Brumbies for a chance with Melbourne Rebels

The outgoing ACT Brumbies scrumhalf leaves the club a Super Rugby AU champion having racked up 73 appearances in five years.

Coronavirus complications had stalled the 26-year-old's search for a new contract with the return of Nic White and the emergence of Ryan Lonergan bolstering the Brumbies' scrumhalf stocks.

Powell had been linked to a potential move overseas but will stay in Australia to link up with the Rebels, who are fresh off a maiden finals appearance in the domestic tournament.

He joins Tevita Kuridrani in joining a rival club with the star outside centre joining the Western Force for the 2021 campaign.

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"It's been a dream come true to represent the Brumbies," Powell said.

"To play one time for the club was incredible, but to play 73 times and go out winning a trophy is a special feeling and I've enjoyed every minute of my time with the club.

"The Brumbies gave me an opportunity to play professional rugby in my hometown and for that I'll always be grateful.

"Playing for the Canberra community was an honour and I want to thank the Brumbies family for all their support during the years.

"I'm happy to be continuing my career in Australia and I'm looking forward to a new challenge in Melbourne."

Powell is in Christchurch with the Wallabies as he searches for a chance to prove himself after an impressive campaign in the domestic competition.

The four-Test No.9 has for so long been considered the unlucky Wallaby after being picked in squads regularly with minimal chances given to him on the field.

But Brumbies coach Dan McKellar has little doubt Powell will shine if he gets the nod from Wallabies mentor Dave Rennie during the Bledisloe Cup and Rugby Championship campaign.

"It's tough to see Joey going, he's a leader in the team and someone who loves the club," McKellar said.

"I've coached Joe for a long time, here at the Brumbies and with the Tuggeranong Vikings and it's been a pleasure to see his growth over the years.

"I've no doubt Joe will be a success [in Melbourne], and I wish him all the best for the future."