The Belgian is planning to play two warm-up events later this year but has chosen Brisbane for her official comeback after recently deciding to come out of retirement.
"After a 15-month absence I am pleased to begin my second tennis career at the Brisbane International," the 27-year-old said in a statement on Wednesday.
Henin was given a wildcard into the January 3-10 event because she no longer has a ranking, and will be joined by compatriot Kim Clijsters, who won this year's US Open after also making a comeback.
The pair are using the Brisbane tournament to fine tune their preparations for the first grand slam of the year in Melbourne from January 18-31.