The West Country outfit have also captured England Under-21 pair Andrew Higgins and Philip Christophers.

Little won 75 caps for the Wallabies before retiring from the international scene.

Last week, he terminated his contract with Bristol's neighbours Gloucester after just one season.

"Bristol turned things round in the second half of last season and I'm confident we'll build on that," said Little.

"I've a tremendous passion for rugby and I'm going to be putting everything I can into my performance, but also helping develop some of the young guys in the squad."

They include centre Higgins, signed from Worcester, and wing Christophers, captured from French club Brives.

Bristol head coach Dean Ryan said: "Obviously signing a player of Jason Little's calibre is an important event for the club.

"We recognised a need to add quality into our midfield and Jason's track record is evidence that we're achieving that aim.

"He'll have an important part to play in passing on what he knows to young players such as Andrew and Philip."

Bristol, who just missed out on last season's championship play-offs, have also concluded a �2m, five-year-deal with Mitsubishi Motors, which means they will now be known as Bristol Shoguns.