Mark Nawaqanitawase, 26, has started a lucrative two-season deal with Japan's Saitama Wild Knights, coached by former Wallabies coach Robbie Deans.
His NRL premiership, State of Origin series win and Ashes success have not secured a place on the 2026 Golden Boot shortlist.
International Rugby League's rules now count only Test matches and global tournaments, excluding NRL and Origin performances from judging.
The IRL changed its format in 2018, seeking to avoid a second Dally M.
Australia has won the last three Rugby League World Cups and is pursuing a fourth consecutive title.
Harry Grant won the 2025 Golden Boot after Australia beat England, while many believed New Zealand's Dylan Brown deserved it after the Pacific Nations Championships.
Civoniceva, a 2025 judge, said Nawaqanitawase merited consideration: "He's a once-in-a-generation player."