The 31-year-old returns to the A-League, with Roar becoming his latest local club after stints at Perth Glory, Newcastle Jets and Wellington Phoenix plus a marquee contract with North Queensland Fury although he didn't play an A-League game for them before moving to Asia.

North makes the switch to Brisbane from relegated J.League outfit Consadole Sapporo, in a bid to keep his hat in the ring to add to his 39 caps for Australia.

His arrival at Suncorp Stadium also comes the same day Roar released midfielder Rocky Visconte to the Western Sydney Wanderers.

North said he was hoping to continue what has been a successful period at Brisbane in recent seasons.

"I'm looking forward to putting one foot forward and contributing to the legacy Brisbane Roar has created over the past two seasons and doing all I can to help add to the trophy cabinet," North said.

"For me it's exciting to know I will be playing in front of family and friends, but most importantly for the city which groomed me as a player.

"From a personal point of view I would like to acknowledge and thank Brisbane for the professionalism the club has shown throughout discussions and negotiations with my manager Buddy Farah."

Brisbane coach Mike Mulvey said North's acquisition will bolster their experience at the back.

"Jade has an excellent footballing pedigree and will bring a great deal of experience and knowledge to our squad," Mulvey said.

"He is a proven winner and has a great appetite for future success.

"Aside from footballing ability, these are key attributes we are looking to bring into our squad to help maintain the culture of success at the club."