New Waratahs coach Rob Penney has made his first signing, former Wallabies prop and Super Rugby journeyman Tetera Faulkner.

The former Western Force and Melbourne Rebels front-rower has signed a two-year deal to help bolster the rebuilding franchise’s forward pack for two seasons from 2020.

Faulkner, who will bring up the 100-game Super Rugby milestone when he debuts for the Waratahs, returns to Sydney after being a member of the Waratahs’ academy system in 2010.

The New Zealand-born 31-year-old played the first of his four Tests in 2014 and Penney is delighted to have a prop of Faulkner’s experience on board.

“Tetera’s 99 Super Rugby games speaks to his overall qualities as a player but more specifically his toughness and durability,” Penney said.

“His scrummaging is really well regarded and the role he can play within our front-row group will be important next season.

“To have Tetera working alongside the likes of Tom Robertson and Harry Johnson-Holmes shows we’re making progress in gathering a group of players that will support and drive one another for success in what is a key area for us.”

Faulkner was looking forward to representing a third Australian Super Rugby franchise.

“It’s an exciting time for the team with Rob (Penney) coming in and other changes around the squad,” he said.

Faulkner will join the Waratahs pre-season program in late November.