The experienced dummy half has joined on a three-year deal to become Saints' fourth new signing as club's rebuild under current Australian World Cup coach Kevin Walters continues.

Saints had previously announced the arrivals of half back Sean O'Sullivan, three-quarter Christian Tuipulotu and centre Solomona Faataape.

The quartet of 2027 new signings will start at the club when pre-season training gets under way.

Starling said: “This is such a great opportunity to be able to join such a prestigious club as St Helens.

"I'm a bit of a rugby league nerd, so I keep up to date with Super League, and I've always admired the competition from afar, the style of rugby and the toughness of it.

"I've played alongside a few of the English lads in Canberra, and you see the passion they have for their clubs.

“I feel like I'll fit in really well.

"I wear my heart on my sleeve, and I can see that same passion in the people of St Helens.

"It's a very passionate, loyal fanbase, and that reflects the way I play.

“I love the expectation of winning trophies.

"That's why I play the game: to win, play with a bit of style and show passion.

"I'm so excited to get over there, immerse myself in the town and community, and become a Saint.”

Starling is relishing the prospect of working under Walters, who coached him in the Prime Minister's XIII.

“I've seen how intense he is with his training, and so when Kevvie called and asked if I'd be interested in coming, he spoke about his plans for the Club and what he wants to achieve.

"I was ready to go there and then!

“Having Kevvie there was a massive draw for me.

"Saints is a big enough draw in itself, but having him involved is going to be huge.

"I can't wait to see what we can achieve together over the coming years.

"I'm really excited to play under him.”

The 28-year-old made his NRL debut with the Newcastle Knights in 2018 before moving to Canberra, where he has played for the last eight seasons.

During his NRL career, he has made 156 appearances, scored 17 tries, won the 2025 NRL minor premiership and represented the Prime Minister's XIII.

At Canberra, Starling has established himself as one of the NRL's most exciting hookers, combining an incisive running game with sharp service from the ruck and a highly competitive attitude.

His departure was greeted with genuine sadness from the Raiders fans, who sent him their best wishes when he announced his decision to leave a fortnight ago.

CEO of St. Helens R.F.C. Abi Ekoku welcomed Tom Starling to the Club and said: “Tom's desire to join the Club has been infectious, and his hunger for success stands out.

"Saints supporters will embrace his skill, leadership & fierce competitiveness, and we look forward to welcoming him at the BrewDog Stadium."

It does, however, take Saints' number of imports up to 11, which means one of the current crop will have to leave to fit under the quota of 10.

On top of the four new recruits, Saints' other overseas players are Tristan Sailor, Nene Macdonald, Jacob Host, Daniel Suluka-Fifita, David Klemmer, Shane Wright and Curtis Sironen.