The 27-year-old ex-Melbourne Victory full-back joins the Fury after several seasons in Scotland's First Division playing with Partick Thistle and presently Airdrie United.

It is understood there was interest in Storey from several Scottish clubs, along with new A-League franchise Melbourne Heart, but North Queensland won the race for his signature.

Storey insists the Fury, despite their financial issues, was the ideal choice for him.

"It's a brilliant opportunity, the Fury are going to have an exciting year this year and it's probably the right time for me," he told the Townsville Bulletin.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed my time in the UK and Scotland and it's probably time for a move back to Oz. The Fury ticked all the boxes."

Storey continued he was aware of the club's recent financial issues but was optimistic they could continue to recover under the FFA's guidance.

"I think with the FFA backing the club it is now probably the most stable club in the league,'' he said.

''That's a good sign it has put its confidence in it.''

The Melbourne-born defender, who won the A-League double with the Victory in 2007, also believes he'll return to Australia a better player for his experiences abroad.

''It's a tough league, a tough place to come to, the UK and Scotland, and I have really learned a lot from the experience, both on and off the park,'' he said.