The 2010 World Cup representative spent last season on loan at Belgian side KSV Roulers who were relegated from the top flight, having previously played for Perth Glory in the A-League.
"Nikita is very quick and very adaptable up front," said Hertha's sporting director Michael Preetz.
The 23-year-old, who was born in Ukraine but moved to Australia aged 14, was out of contract at Dutch side FC Twente.
Rukavytsya played for Australia at the 2008 Olympics - an under-23 side - and has since played six times for the Socceroos.
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He also made two appearances off the bench in this year's World Cup.
Hertha finished bottom of the Bundesliga last season, winning just five times, and were relegated to the second division.
