QUADE COOPER'S future in Australian rugby remains in limbo after the Wallabies five-eighth was fined $40,000 for criticising the team and coach Robbie Deans.

Although Cooper has signed a three-year deal with Super Rugby franchise the Reds, the ARU withdrew its top-up contract after the injured playmaker's remarks in September.

Quade Cooper gives a statement to the media after the disciplinary hearing. Credit:Anthony Johnson

Deputy chief executive Matt Carroll said the ARU had noted the tribunal's findings and would consider the next step in the contracting process.

''ARU placed contract negotiations with Quade Cooper on hold until the tribunal process had been finalised,'' he said.