Super Rugby winning back-row Beau Robinson has a big role to play for Harlequins says director of rugby Conor O'Shea.

The 29-year-old former Queensland Red signed for the west London outfit with immediate effect this week as injury dispensation cover for Netani Talei.

Fiji international Talei was ruled out of the current campaign with a serious knee injury suffered following his return to from Rugby World Cup duty.

Robinson, capped once by Australia, arrives at the Stoop from NSW County Eagles, a team he joined this year following five seasons with the Reds, where he played alongside Quins lock James Horwill.

"We are delighted to able to bring in someone of Beau's ability at such short notice," said O'Shea.

"We are looking forward to welcoming him to Harlequins, helping him settle into London life and see him make a big impact for the club for the rest of the season.”

Robinson, who lifted the Super XV title in 2011, added: "I'm excited to have joined Harlequins and to be presented with the opportunity to play alongside some world class players.

"I'm looking forward to helping the club push for honours in both the Aviva Premiership and the European Challenge Cup.”