Hayne bail varied so he can get to court

Out-of-contract rugby league star Jarryd Hayne's bail has been varied so he can go to Newcastle to attend court over an alleged rape.

The 30-year-old, who is charged with aggravated sexual assault, was excused from attending Newcastle Local Court when his case was mentioned on Wednesday.

It's alleged the one-time NFL player had sexual intercourse with a 26-year-old woman without her consent and knowing that she wasn't consenting in Newcastle in September 2018.

Police say he recklessly inflicted actual bodily harm to his alleged victim at the time of the offence, according to court documents.

His barrister has said he intends to plead not guilty.

On Wednesday, his matter was adjourned until April 3 and a bail condition that he not go to Newcastle was varied to make an exception for court appearances.

However, Hayne is again excused from attending his next mention if he's legally represented.

In addition to the Newcastle ban, Hayne's bail also required him to surrender his passport and hand over a $20,000 surety, and he has to report to police three times a week.

The former Australian and state of origin back is without an NRL club after Parramatta did not offer him a new contract at the end of last season.