Despite currently playing some of the best rugby of his career, Kefu has slipped down the pecking order with the Wallabies and had originally been offered a downgraded contract by the ARU, forcing him to consider a switch to Franklin’s Gardens.

But following negotiations with the ARU’s high performance manager Brett Robinson, Kefu secured a deal which keeps his international ambitions alive.

“The ARU and the Queensland Rugby Union were fantastic to deal with and our talks could not have gone any smoother. They have both been very supportive,” said Kefu from South Africa, where he is currently on tour with the Queensland Reds.

“I am also determined to force my way back into the Wallabies.”

Kefu scored his only Test try in Australia’s victory over Ireland in Perth last June but failed to make the most of his international opportunities and missed out on selection for the World Cup.

He has responded this season with a series of impressive displays for the Queensland Reds despite his side languishing near the bottom of the Super 12 table.

“It is really pleasing that Steve has made the decision to stay,” said Wallabies coach Eddie Jones.

“He is a young player who has a lot to contribute to Queensland and Australian Rugby.

“It is a great boost and over the next period of time he will make an impact for the Reds and Australia.”

Northampton will lose Leslie, the former Scotland international, at the end of the season but have been linked with the tough-tackling South African international centre De Wet Barry.