The Parramatta Eels have commenced legal proceedings against Zac Lomax, escalating a high-profile contractual dispute over the former representative back’s attempted return to the NRL.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Eels confirmed they have lodged proceedings in the NSW Supreme Court to enforce the terms of a release agreement signed by Lomax in November 2025, following his request to pursue opportunities outside the NRL.
According to the Club, Lomax sought a release in late July or early August last year, indicating his intention to explore opportunities beyond rugby league. After negotiations involving Lomax and his legal representatives, Parramatta granted the release on 16 November 2025 — but only under strict conditions designed to protect the Club.
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Release clause at centre of dispute
Central to the dispute is a clause in the release agreement that prevents Lomax from joining another NRL club before 31 October 2028 without Parramatta’s express written consent.
The Eels say the condition was included to ensure they would not lose a representative-calibre player to a rival NRL club during the remaining term of Lomax’s original contract without receiving appropriate compensation or benefit.
Parramatta Chairman Matthew Beach said the Club had no choice but to pursue legal action after negotiations failed to resolve the matter.
“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 said.
“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.”
Mediation and Storm talks fail
Parramatta revealed the matter had already been subject to extensive negotiations, including a formal independent mediation process involving Lomax, his legal team and representatives of the Melbourne Storm.
However, the Club says no agreement was reached, and Lomax’s legal team has since advised in writing that he does not accept the release conditions as enforceable.
The Eels also confirmed they were approached by the Storm late last year and engaged in discussions in good faith, but were unable to reach an agreement that they believed represented fair value for their football program.
“The guiding position of our Club has been to ensure a fair exchange of value for our football program in circumstances where the Storm are attempting to obtain the benefit,” Beach said.
Eels stand firm on contract principles
Parramatta stressed that Lomax had legal representation throughout the release negotiations and accepted the conditions after receiving advice, with the release documentation formally registered with the NRL.
The Club also noted that Lomax had indicated at the time his focus was on pursuing rugby union opportunities, particularly with R360.
“Our Club believes in the importance of observing contractual obligations,” Beach said.
“Contracts allow Clubs and players to operate with certainty and within a framework of rules. Contracts are the very stuff that any member of the community and companies have to honour in order to ensure that there is fair dealing. The same applies to the NRL, Clubs and players.”
Despite the legal action, Parramatta says it remains open to discussions with other NRL clubs if appropriate value is offered.
“Zac and his agent still have an opportunity to work with us to explore options with the other 16 NRL clubs,” Beach added.
“Notwithstanding this action, we remain open to discussions with any Club who may be willing to offer the appropriate value for our football program.”
The Eels confirmed senior barrister Arthur Moses SC has been retained to represent the Club in court.
The outcome of the case could have significant ramifications for player release agreements and contract enforcement across the NRL.