Cricket Australia's head of umpiring Simon Taufel has quit, as the winds of change continue at head office.

Fairfax Media understands Taufel took early leave last week and will not return before his contract expires on Friday, just a fortnight before the 2018-19 season opens with the domestic one-day series.

Simon Taufel has quit Cricket Australia. Credit:Nick Moir

Taufel had only been in the role as match referee and umpire selection panel manager since August 2016, having been recruited by CA's head of performance Pat Howard to improve the standard of umpiring and provide the craft with greater recognition.

It's understood Taufel has left on his own volition, with suggestions he became frustrated with the leadership in the sport.