But Melbourne Victory recruit Emma Checker has slotted in seamlessly into her new surroundings as another key addition to Canberra's title defence.

Checker and Adelaide United defender Jenna McCormick fill the holes left by the departures of Canberra products Sally Rojahn and Grace Field, who are having the season off.

Checker debuted for the Matildas in November, 2012, but the 19-year-old missed out on selection for this year's women's World Cup.

She was an integral part of the Victory, who finished second only to get beaten by Canberra in their semi-final in Geelong.

Canberra then went on to defeat Perth Glory in the grand final to collect the club's second championship.

"There's that little bit of pressure, but it's nice pressure, it pushes you to do it again," Checker said.

"I've come from the team that actually got knocked out by Canberra, so it was mixed feelings at the start.

"But it's exciting and hopefully we can hold it together and do it again."

Checker can play anywhere in the back four and knows there will be plenty of competition for spots in the starting team.

"That's an attractive thing at a club like this because you don't want your spot handed to you," Checker said.

"There were a few things that came into consideration, but the biggest thing was I needed to be where was the best for my football development.

"I felt Canberra was the best place for that."

It's a similar situation for McCormick, who was a mainstay of the Adelaide United defence for the past two seasons.

The 21-year-old said she was after an opportunity to take her game to the next level.

"I was after a new challenge," McCormick said.

"I had reached my ultimate ability with Adelaide and felt that I wanted to step out of my comfort zone and challenge myself and be in an environment where there was a higher competition for spots.

"A chance to push myself and see what I can do."

Checker and McCormick are two of five new players in Canberra's squad.

Mexican midfielder Veronica Perez is expected to join her new teammates this week, while New Zealand forward Emma Kete and Canberra teenager Nickoletta Flannery add plenty of speed up front.

Canberra United opens its W-League season away to Brisbane Roar on October 18.