Anderson has been offered the position, but is waiting for his work permit to be finalised.
The World Cup-winning rugby league coach won 15 caps as an Australian winger.
At club level, Anderson has coached English side Halifax and Australian teams Canterbury and Melbourne, with all three sides wining their respective Premierships.
Anderson made the headlines in November 2001 when he suffered a heart attack during Australia’s series-deciding victory over Great Britain in Wigan. He replaces Wales coach Mike Ruddock at Rodney Parade.