Born in Wellington, New Zealand Butler moved to Australia at 13, and has represented the country at under-age level.

Butler was born in Wellington, New Zealand and moved with his family to the Gold Coast in Australia as a 13-year-old.

Butler's performances in 2012 prompted head coach Ewen McKenzie to name him in the franchise's Extended Playing Squad for 2013.

[7] The following season again saw Butler feature in all games as the Brumbies reached the semi-final stage, although half of his appearances came as a replacement following the return from injury of the team's vice-captain David Pocock.

[5] Butler formed a back row partnership with Australian internationals Pocock and Scott Fardy over the course of the season, starting at number 8 alongside the pair in the quarter-final defeat to Highlanders.

[5] In the 2015 season he was named captain,[13] and started all 10 of the side's games as they finished runners up to Brisbane City.

[5] His departure for Connacht at the end of the 2017 Super Rugby season meant he did not play for the Vikings in the 2017 NRC.

[5] In July 2017, it was announced that Butler had signed a three-year contract with Irish Pro14 side Connacht.

[20] Born in New Zealand, Butler has represented Australia at under-age level after moving there as a teenager.