The Australian rugby league coach Ricky Stuart has stood down after being fined $25,000 in the wake of an investigation into an alleged verbal outburst at world cup final referee Ashley Klein.
The day after New Zealand's upset win over the Kangaroos, Stuart is alleged to have abused Klein and match officials in a Brisbane hotel lobby.
In the wake of the fine Stuart has decided not to seek reappointment to the Kangaroos coaching role.
In a statement released by the Australian Rugby League, Stuart said in view of the circumstances it was the only decision he could make.
He says the penalty is fair and reasonable and while there are some elements of the fine he could debate, it's in the best interest of the game he leaves them unchallenged.
Stuart also apologised to everyone involved in the incident.
