Wallabies utility back Curtis Rona's desire to play at the 2019 World Cup has led to him signing for the NSW Waratahs, instead of going overseas or returning to rugby league.

Rona played three Tests for the Wallabies this year after moving across from NRL side Canterbury to join the Western Force.

With that franchise cut from Super Rugby, Rona opted to sign a two-year deal with the Waratahs.

He only had one season back in rugby with the ill-fated Force but opted to stay in Australian rugby despite having offers to go overseas and return to rugby league.