Melbourne: Controversial former India coach Greg Chappell was on Wednesday appointed the head coach of Cricket Australia's Centre of Excellence (COE), replacing Tim Nielson on a three-year term.

The 60-year-old former Australian skipper, who has also coached South Australia, will be based full-time at the COE in Brisbane where he will oversee the development of Australia's cricketing talent.

"I am looking forward to the challenge this position will offer in what is an exciting time, not just for Australian cricket but world cricket as a whole," Chappell, who had a stormy tenure as India coach that included public spats with the then skipper Sourav Ganguly, said.

Cricket Australia Chief Executive Officer James Sutherland said Chappell's appointment as head coach would be beneficial to Australian cricket.

"Greg brings to the role a great deal of experience as player, captain and coach. His recent coaching experiences in India add to the key lessons and insights he will offer Australia's emerging talent," Sutherland said.

"He will play an important role in developing the strong links between the Centre of Excellence and Australian men's and women's teams.

"This is a key appointment for Australian Cricket. Greg is renowned for his ability to identify and develop cricketing talent and we are very pleased to have secured his services," he added.

Chappell's new job includes overseeing the implementation of all COE programs, providing leadership to the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) men's and women's program and the continued development of COE coaching staff.

He will also act as an Australian men's team consultant, as the Australia A coach for all future tournaments and play a role in the development of Australia's youth cricketers.

"I believe I have a lot to offer the younger players, especially in the mental area of the game from both a personal and coaching point of view and have a lot of knowledge when it comes to individual and team preparations for cricketing tours," Chappell said.

"Through my experience not only as a player and captain but also as a selector, in administration, the media and my time in India , I hope to pass on some of my learnings as we strive for excellence in Australian cricket," he added.

AIS Director Professor Peter Fricker said he was delighted at having a person of outstanding cricketing knowledge as coach at the COE.

"Greg Chappell brings a wealth of experience as both a former top class cricketer and as a high quality coach," Fricker said.

"He will prove a tremendous asset to the Centre and will bring vast international experience and build on our attitude of excellence in the program," he added.

The COE was launched in 2004 and replaced the Commonwealth Bank Cricket Academy that had been based in Adelaide for 15 years.