Australian and Western Force loose forward, Richard Brown, will remain in Australia until the end of 2012 after he re-signed for a further 12-months.

The 27-year old is the 22nd player to re-sign with Australian Rugby this year and joins fellow Wallabies and Western Force teammates, Matt Hodgson, Ben McCalman and Nathan Sharpe to re-commit for the 2012 season.

Brown played all but one match in the 2011 Super Rugby season and complemented his regular role at No.8 with good performances at blindside flank.

He enjoyed a strong season with the Force and showed his trademark ferocity and physical presence at the breakdown, traits that have seen him earn 23 Australian Test caps over the past three years.

Brown missed out on selection for the World Cup after opting to have a shoulder operation to ensure he was ready for the start of the 2012 Super Rugby.

Speaking from Perth, Brown said he was excited to be staying on in Australia and at the Force and was looking forward to a big 2012.

"I really wanted to continue to contribute to Australian Rugby and I'm glad we've been able to come to an arrangement that will allow me to do so," Brown said.

"It has been difficult to watch from the sidelines over the past few months but making the decision to take some time out and get back to maximum fitness will hopefully open greater opportunities to represent my country going forward."

An inaugural player at the Western Force, Brown surpassed 50 Super Rugby appearances last season and is the third most capped player in club history.