GOLD Coast has added experienced defender Tiarna Ernst to its inaugural AFL Women's squad.

The Suns, one of four new teams joining the NAB AFLW competition in 2020, confirmed on Monday morning they had signed the 31-year-old Ernst, who played 22 games for the Western Bulldogs from 2017-19.

Ernst, a doctor specialising in obstetrics and gynaecology, played in the Bulldogs' 2018 premiership team.

"To be able to get her into our football club is a fantastic result," said Fiona McLarty, the Suns' head of women's football.

"She brings with her plenty of experience and will play a role in the development of our younger players.

"We can't wait to see Tiarna out on the field in 2020 for us."

Ernst is the fourth player the Suns have recruited from other AFLW clubs, with Jamie Stanton (North Melbourne) and Tori Groves-Little and Paige Parker (Brisbane) agreeing to terms last week.