Melbourne Rebels have received a boost on the eve of their local derby against the Brumbies with centre Mitch Inman re-signing for two more seasons.

Inman has become a permanent fixture in the Rebels midfield for a number of seasons now, his hard running and heavy defence proving a key component in what is an improving backline. The former Western Force centre has also struck up an impressive partnership with New Zealander Tamati Ellison, who this week plays his 100th Super Rugby game.

While admitting he'd considered a move overseas, Inman said the desire to test himself against the best players in Super Rugby was too strong to ignore.

"The coaching staff and management have done an outstanding job over the past six months in keeping this group together and that's been a big factor in why I want to stick around," Inman said.

"Super Rugby is the toughest provincial competition in the world, and although France was an option, I wanted to be in an environment where I can constantly challenge myself. There was no need to talk to any other Club; I believe going forward that the Rebels are improving out of sight, and I want to be part of the success down here in Melbourne."

The 25-year-old former Sydneysider is also desperate to fulfil his dream of playing for the Wallabies, an experience he's had a taste of at recent training camps.

"I am putting my hand up to be selected for Australia; that's been my goal since I was a five year old kid," he said. "It's important to have individual aspirations, but it is more important to ensure your teammates have them as well and that we work hard and achieve things as a collective.

"We know that as a team we have to continue to become a lot more competitive in this competition and that when we do, a lot more players will be selected for higher honours."