Nucifora is a former Wallabies and Queensland hooker

The Brumbies lead the 2004 Super 12 competition with five rounds remaining, and Nucifora is seen as one of the tournament's most successful coaches.

He said he was "bitterly disappointed" but added: "Despite the appalling way I have been treated, I am committed to the success of the team."

He took ACT to the 2002 Super 12 final and to the semi-finals in 2003.

ACT rugby head Rob Clarke said: "I know that to many people this may seem like a strange decision.

"But we as a board considered what we need to take us forward and we've decided not to offer David Nucifora a further extension of his contract.

"The task that David was employed to do for us was to introduce change to the squad, with a particular emphasis on the development of younger players.

"We believe that he has completed this task successfully and the next stage of the team and rugby programme development requires another set of skills.

"We need to think of the future, and believe we require another coach."