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The Brisbane Lions' AFLW title defence will see them play out of a new home ground - their fifth in six seasons - in Maroochydore on the Sunshine Coast.

Coach Craig Starcevich is adamant a fifth AFLW home in six seasons will be an advantage for Brisbane, not an obstacle for the defending champions.

The Lions on Friday confirmed Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex on the Sunshine Coast - 100km north of the Gabba - as next season's home ground.

Awaiting the completion of their custom-built Springfield home base, set to be a permanent home from next season, the move north comes after the side used four different Brisbane grounds in its first five seasons.

They have only played twice at the Gabba and even had to contest the inaugural AFLW grand final at Metricon Stadium when the Brisbane ground was unavailable.

A delayed AFLW season start now eats into the club football season, forcing them further north, but not out of the comfort zone of a team that has defied those movements and constant raids from new AFLW clubs to boast three grand final appearances in the competition's five-year history.

"That's the mantra the girls have had all the way through," Starcevich said.

"Last year presented a number of challenges and they rose to the occasion every time.

"But I don't see that as being an obstacle in this case, because this venue and ground is absolutely magnificent.

"Some of the best state league footy I've watched has been on this ground; it's very conducive to good footy."

Premiership-winning captain Emma Zielke has retired from playing and will assist Starcevich this season, with Breanna Koenen to lead the team when the season begins on January 6.