The Zac Lomax Contract Saga Takes a Surprising Turn
The Parramatta Eels have taken legal action against their former star player, Zac Lomax, as the former Eels star continues to attempt to break a contract. The Australian Test winger walked out on the final three years of his Eels contract over the off-season, seeking a lucrative deal with R360. However, after his proposed move to the rebel rugby competition was delayed due to its start date being pushed back to 2028, he has since been seeking a return to the NRL.
The main issue for the 26-year-old is that Parramatta coach Jason Ryles doesn't want him back in the blue and yellow, and the club has been unwilling to allow him to negotiate with another NRL club for three years, as per the terms of his release. Despite ongoing talks, negotiations broke down this week, even as the NRL attempted to mediate a deal between Parramatta and Melbourne, who are desperate to sign a marquee player after an exodus of stars.
Now, things have taken a turn for the worse as the Eels have commenced legal action against their former star. The matter is set to be heard in the NSW Supreme Court on Friday afternoon. Lomax has hired top lawyer Ramy Qutami to represent him, while the Eels will be represented by Arthur Moses.
In a statement on Thursday, Parramatta Eels Chairman Matthew Beach expressed disappointment at the situation. He stated, 'It is disappointing that we have reached this position, but we have an obligation to the Club's stakeholders to protect the contractual rights of our Club and the expectation of our Members, players, and supporters that contracts will be honoured.'
Beach continued, 'Back in November 2025, we granted Zac Lomax's request for a release to pursue opportunities outside the NRL on the condition that he would not return to the NRL during the period of his original playing contract with our Club, without our written consent.'
'Zac had legal representation during the negotiations of his release. He accepted those conditions based on his interest in pursuing opportunities with rugby union, particularly R360. The release documentation was registered with the NRL, who are aware of the conditions associated with the release.'
The Eels emphasized the importance of contractual obligations, stating, 'Our Club believes in the importance of observing contractual obligations. Contracts allow Clubs and players to operate with certainty and within a framework of rules. Contracts are essential for fair dealing in the community, companies, and the NRL, Clubs, and players.'
Regarding the recent negotiations with Melbourne Storm, Beach added, 'Late last year, when we were approached by Melbourne Storm, we engaged with them in good faith, but we have not been able to come to an agreement that would represent sufficient value for our Club, particularly in relation to our football program.'
The Eels have now launched legal proceedings to ensure Lomax sticks to the agreement, as no deal could be reached with the Storm. The Storm had offered around $200,000 in compensation to sign Lomax, but the Eels have pushed back, demanding a player in return. Parramatta wants either Jack Howarth, Xavier Coates, or Stefano Utoikamanu, but the Storm is unwilling to let any of them go.
As a result, the NRL is prepared to intervene if the Eels don't accept any 'reasonable offers'. Given the Bulldogs' payment of $165,000 to the Wests Tigers for Lachie Galvin's mid-season arrival, a figure around $200,000 is likely deemed 'reasonable'. However, financial compensation doesn't help the Eels in the open market or salary-cap-wise; it only assists with football operations and pathway programs.
