Former AFL star Ben Cousins, who was expected to leave prison at the end of the month, is unlikely to be released on parole after failing a drug test while on remand.

After almost six months in jail for repeatedly breaching a violence restraining order against his ex-partner, the 2005 Brownlow medallist was supposed to be eligible for parole in two weeks’ time.

It is understood that this is now not the case.

Cousins’ lawyer Michael Tudori confirmed on Thursday night the 39-year-old had failed a drug test while on remand but was now drug-free in prison.

“I can confirm that Mr Cousins parole application has been delayed awaiting for him to complete further rehabilitation courses which are now only becoming available to him,” Mr Tudori said.

“He will be eligible to reapply for parole upon completion of those courses.

“Although when Mr Cousins was first remanded in custody he tested positive to an illicit substance on one occasion, he is currently drug free and in positive spirits.”

Mr Tudori denied any allegations of Cousins being involved or connected to smuggling of drugs into prison as “absurd” and “unsubstantiated”.

– AAP