His reply to an inquiry about his state from the concussion that forced him off in the first minutes of Saturday's game against the Brumbies in Canberra might have been light-hearted.

But immediately afterwards, Polota-Nau went to great lengths to reassure he was anything but dismissive of the condition and head injuries, which not so long ago footballers would rarely openly speak about.

The Wallabies rake, who has been forced off the field with concussion twice this season, is working closely with neurologist John Watson and clinical neuropsychologist Zoe Terpening on research into the affect of concussion and data from his incidents are being contributed for study.

Polota-Nau is a big supporter of the strict protocols around concussion in the game, believing that long-term player health and welfare is imperative and that awareness of the problem needs to increased.

Speaking on Monday at the launch of a campaign for the Wake Up Project, which is aimed at heightening awareness that strength in men can be proved by them showing care and emotion, Polota-Nau admitted there was a time when he would not have spoken openly about concussion.

"Exactly ... absolutely," Polota-Nau said. "Our inner strength is about being open and talking about everything to each other ... and it is not just rugby related but life related."

Polota-Nau does not know if he will be available to play against the Force in Perth on Saturday night.

If not he believes the Waratahs will still be strong up front and in set-piece when Tolu Latu plays in his place.

Latu impressed when Polota-Nau was sidelined after his first concussion and took back the No. 2 strip two games ago.

Polota-Nau welcomed Latu's recent comments in which he declared a desire to keep the starting slot.

"That's great," Polota-Nau said. "I have told that little bugger to never look up to me because the job is never solidified.

"You have to work for it. It is great he has taken that, and not just [that he has] given me a challenge, but the other hookers are putting their best foot forward for that position.

"End of the day, it's more about what is best for the team.

"If your best is not good enough and his is, so be it."

• More rugby at Rugby Heaven