Williams made a comeback this summer after a 16-month hiatus. In November last year, it was also announced that she would participate in the WTA tournament in Auckland, New Zealand, which begins on Saturday.
The Australian Open will be played in Melbourne from January 18th.
"I am excited to be back in Australia and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer," Williams said.
"I have so many great memories from there and I am grateful for the opportunity to return to a place that has meant so much to my career."
Williams has previously won seven Grand Slam titles and four Olympic gold medals.
