Austin attended a training camp earlier this week and the forward will now travel to Perth as part of the NSW Under 18 squad for their clash with Rugby WA on Saturday.

Having featured in a number of representative fixtures for NSW Country throughout the year, Austin acknowledged last week's clash with GPS was a step up, but now he's experienced that level of intensity, the 17-year-old is ready for the Perth match.

"It was a good experience playing against GPS, they play a very different style of footy," Austin said. "It was a higher level of intensity to what I'm used to.

"The goal for this week is to learn as much as I can and become a better player. Hopefully I can play well on Saturday and help the team win the game in Perth."

Austin's selection comes as part of a revamped junior representative structure, with the Australian Schoolboys converted into an Australian Schoolboys and Under 18 side that takes into account all under 18 players.

For Austin, a student at Corpus Christi, the revamp has provided him with the opportunity to represent both his state and his country at the junior level.

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"The pathways are getting better, especially for myself, I wouldn't have made it as far on the old pathway, this new pathway gives more kids more opportunities. Hopefully I can keep going to make the Australian team."

Despite his young age, the lock forward has very quickly developed into a mainstay in the Kiama first grade lineup after making his debut midway through last year.

Austin recognises the transition from junior to senior rugby has been a challenging one, however he's confident the experience gained from playing against fully developed men will hold him in good stead.

"Playing against adults on Saturdays, it's really different when I come back and play against my own age, it's a lot less physical."

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