Wallabies back rower Scott Higginbotham will put his international career on hold after this year's rugby World Cup and quit the Melbourne Rebels for a lucrative stint in Japan.

Higginbotham will play Super Rugby this year and is expected to be named in the Wallabies squad for the September-October showpiece in England before heading overseas.

The Rebels said on their website Higginbotham would take up a contract in the Japanese Top League.

"I love the Rebels, and I also love every opportunity to play for my country; I'll always be grateful for the opportunities I have been given in Australia," Higginbotham said in a statement on Monday.

"I'm so excited for the season ahead with the Rebels and the Wallabies, and all the success to be had in 2015."

Higginbotham has played in more than 30 Tests for the Wallabies and has scored 27 tries in 93 Super Rugby matches for the Queensland Reds and Rebels, whom he joined in 2013.

Rebels coach McGahan thanked Higginbotham for the service he has provided and will continue to provide in his final season.

"Scott has been an important part of our squad and wonderful ambassador for the club and Victorian rugby over the last two seasons, and will continue to be in 2015," McGahan said.

"Scott will be missed, however his departure at the end of the 2015 season provides an exciting opportunity for the next young Rebels player to push through in back-row positions.

"Our consistent recruitment and retention program over the last twelve months will allow the club to move forward in the best possible direction."

The 28-year-old Perth-born forward did not say which side he would join in Japan, which will host the 2019 World Cup.

The country routinely snaffles top international players on lucrative short-term contracts between World Cups, with former Wallabies coach Robbie Deans and fly half Berrick Barnes among those competing in this season's campaign.

Reuters