The Australia Under-20 international signed a two-year deal with the Hunter-based club following two seasons with the now defunct A-League outfit.

Brillante, 19, has 14 appearances under his belt and joins Scott Neville, Craig Goodwin, Adam Taggart, James Brown and Mark Birighitti among the Jets' recruits for the 2012-13 season.

Newcastle head coach Gary van Egmond said he believes an exciting future lies ahead for the versatile talent.

"Josh is a member of the Under-20 national team and has proven himself at A-League level with the Gold Coast last season," van Egmond said.

"He can play as a right-back or central midfielder and has a great attitude. He is definitely one for the future."

Brillante was a member of the Australia side that went through the AFC Under-19 championship qualification tournament undefeated in November.

He made his Hyundai A-League debut in late 2010 following an impressive stint in the National Youth League.