Burke has won 77 caps for Australia

The 31-year-old can play in a number of positions in the backline and is the fifth highest Test points scorer ever.

Falcons boss Rob Andrew said: "He's one of the biggest names in world rugby.

"He's been one of the most solid players at international level for a long time and we expect his experience and skill to have a major impact."

Burke said he was looking forward to helping the Falcons build on their recent success on and off the field.

"I am delighted to have signed for Newcastle Falcons and am looking forward to the next phase of my career and to playing in the Zurich Premiership and the Heineken Cup," he said.

"I am impressed with the ambition of the club and am keen to be a part of the next phase for Newcastle."

Burke's international career started in 1993 and he has won 77 caps, the last coming against Scotland at the weekend.

He played a major role in the Wallabies' 1999 World Cup victory, scoring 24 points against South Africa in the semi-final and 25 against France in the final.

His 868 Test points include 29 tries and he is the leading scorer in Super 12 history.

Newcastle expect Burke will be joined at the Falcons by forward Radike Samo, who made his debut for the Wallabies in the win over Scotland.