The 24-year-old revealed in the build-up to Sunday's match against Souths in Cairns that being prised from he and his partner's support network of family and friends in Sydney's west had made them a stronger unit – and him a better player.

"It's only us down here," said Austin of Gillian, their son Carter and daughter Nahlaa. "We haven't got much family around us so we're doing everything together and it's actually made us an even closer family.

"That's definitely helped my football because I think most [players] would agree that when things are in order at home you go into games with a good mindset.

"It's funny, when I was offered the chance to play for Canberra I was a bit worried about moving away from my parents; it was my only worry and while we've only been here for six months Gillian and I have matured a lot.

"We're getting much more out of the move than we expected and while I'm on a contract for three years I can honestly see myself staying for longer. It's a good family environment and we do things like spend afternoons in the park as a family, kicking the footy about and having fun."

Austin, who has  previously played for the Wests Tigers and Penrith, said Stuart's faith in him played a pivotal role in his eye-catching performances at No.6.

"The confidence he's shown in me is appreciated," Austin said. "Ricky has never doubted me and knowing the coach fully backs me is something I thrive on.

"I think [as a result of that] I'll only get better but that confidence has been the most important thing for me. I realise you don't ever want to have too much confidence but it's an ingredient you need to succeed."

Austin, who was considered a utility by his previous coaches and used at fullback, centre, back rower and hooker, appears  at home  as Canberra's five-eighth. While his willingness to take on the line and create indecision in the opposition is one of his foremost strengths, he's worked overtime to try to perfect the balance between running, passing and kicking.

Stuart noted his play-maker's value to the team extended beyond the footy field, saying Austin embraced the notion he was a part of a unit that's building upon its culture.

"Blake has fit in well with the boys – as all of our new players are – and he's bought into everything we're doing from a family point of view," said Stuart. "We have a view of looking after the families here as much as we do the players.

"I have a good relationship with Blake, as I have with all my players, and I can really understand why  he was used in a few positions [at Wests Tigers and Penrith] because he has talent.

"However, we have a spot where we need him to play and I have all the confidence in the world in him. We're working on aspects of his game and he'll keep developing. He'll only get better."