Dwyer coached Australia to the 1991 World Cup

Former Australia coach Bob Dwyer has resigned as NSW Waratahs coach after the side missed out on the Super 12 semi-finals.

The Waratahs finished in fifth place on points difference after falling one try short of a bonus point in their final game against Waikato.

Dwyer's future has been the subject of intense speculation since he hinted he would step aside in his newspaper column.

He will continue to work with the state association as a development officer.

"You'd have to say this has been a pretty sensitive time when you have a team to coach but the matter is now resolved," he said.

"I am pleased I can move forward and still continue to make a contribution."

Under Dwyer the Waratahs finished eighth in 2001, were beaten semi-finalists last year - losing 51-10 to the ACT Brumbies - before their fifth-place finish this season.

Over his three year tenure, Dwyer's team won 19 and lost 15 of their 34 matches.

Former Wallabies prop Ewen McKenzie is among the favourites to take over from the former Leicester and Bristol coach.