Godwin's departure is a blow for Australia's inside back stocks and the effects could be felt at the World Cup next year.

Godwin made his Test debut on the spring tour of Europe at the end of 2016, but his international career has since been stalled by frustrating injuries.

He would have been a valuable asset to Wallabies coach Michael Cheika in trying to build depth, but the return of Kurtley Beale and the rise of Reece Hodge appears to have contributed to Godwin's decision to leave.

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Godwin also faces a challenge to force his way back into the Brumbies starting XV after coach Dan McKellar opted for a playmaker combination of Christian Lealiifano and Wharenui Hawera last week.