Roger Federer will start preparations for his tilt at a fifth Australian Open title by returning to the Brisbane International early next year.

Tournament organisers on Monday afternoon announced the 14-time grand slam winner would again be the major drawcard at the Queensland Tennis Centre from January 4-11.

Federer debuted in Brisbane this year, losing the final at Pat Rafter Arena to Lleyton Hewitt.

The Swiss world No.3, who won through to the fourth round of the US Open on Monday morning (AEST), won his last grand slam title at Wimbledon in 2012.