Key Defender Mark Austin has embraced his second chance at an AFL career in the Red, White and Blue, with his efforts earning him a permanent rookie upgrade until the end of the season.

While initially given his chance when fellow defender Tom Williams was placed on the long term injury list, Western Bulldogs coaches have reconfirmed their faith in Austin elevating him to the senior list for the remainder of 2012.

“I’m obviously pretty lucky to get the second chance the Doggies threw me, so just to repay them for the next few years would be nice,” Austin said.

“It is great to stay on the list and hopefully get in a good second half of the season.”

Austin was picked up with the Bulldogs fifth round selection in the 2011 Rookie draft after spending a number of injury riddled seasons at Carlton.

He believes his injury free run since debuting with the Bulldogs in Round 4 against Melbourne has allowed him to develop as a player and gain some confidence in his game.

“In the past few years I have been in for a couple [of games] and then injured for a couple, so just getting a bit of consistency with actually playing went a long way,” he said.

“Obviously I have got to improve on all areas still but just getting a good block of footy under my belt really [helped].”

The 23 year old now faces an increased competition for spots as Lukas Markovic and Tom Williams come into contention after rehabilitating their hamstring and shoulder injuries respectively - a challenge Austin is keen for.

“It is great to see Tommy back - he has had a horrid run with injuries over the years,” Austin said.

“The way he goes about his rehab… and just his leadership off the field - to get him back will be a great contribution.”

The AFL’s mid-season rookie rule stipulates that any Club may elevate a rookie after Round 11 if their total player payments allow - regardless of the number of players on the long term injury list.