O’Meara was drafted to the Suns as pick no.1 in the 2011 NAB AFL Mini Draft and is regarded as one of the code’s hottest prospects.

The 22-year-old signalled his desire to return to Victoria to be close to family to the initial disdain of the Suns who had used significant resources on his rehabilitation from successive injuries.

He has played 44 career games and was the 2013 Rising Star recipient.

Hawthorn Recruiting and list manager Graham Wright said:

“It has been a lengthy process and we are rapt that we can now officially welcome him to our club,” he said.

“At only 22 years of age he is an exciting prospect and has many years of good football ahead of him.

“He has undergone some recent injury troubles, however we are confident that our medical and conditioning staff can work with Jaeger to see him produce his best football.

In exchange for O’Meara, Gold Coast will receive pick 10 and Hawthorn's 2017 second round selection.