North Queensland have bolstered their forward pack by signing Melbourne prop Antonio Kaufusi from next season.

The former Test prop has signed a three-year deal after being told by the Storm earlier this year he could negotiate with other clubs despite having one year left on his contract.

"It was important to make sure my future beyond next year was sorted out as soon as possible, especially now that I have a young family," said Kaufusi, who is originally from Bundaberg in north Queensland.

"When the Cowboys showed an interest, it made sense that I signed with them considering I'm from Queensland and it's a little bit closer to home.

"While they've struggled a bit this year, the Cowboys have some great players and with a bit of luck I can enjoy as much success there as I have in Melbourne."

Kaufusi, who missed last year's NRL grand final win due to injury, has played one match for both Queensland and Australia.

His signing comes just a day after the Cowboys signed young New Zealand Warriors backrower Steve Rapira, the 19-year-old brother of first-grade forward Sam Rapira.

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