Hanley has been a revelation in the Lions' backline this season, with his run-and-dash one of the highlights of a frustrating year.
He came to the club at the end of 2007, and with his contract running out, is keen to stay on longer.
"I love Brisbane, I love the weather, I love the lifestyle," he said. "It's better than being at home in college working on weekends so I can't complain.
"I'm definitely keen to stay on with the Brisbane Lions."
Hanley was first noticed by the Lions after excelling at the under-17 International Rules series in Fremantle in 2006 where he won the Ron Barassi Medal as Ireland's best player.
Although still keeping a keen interest in his country's national sport, the 22-year-old is in no hurry to return home.
"Every weekend I'm watching the Gaelic football and I'd love to go back and play for (County) Mayo one day, but when it comes … if it comes."
Hanley initially signed a two-year international rookie contract and was then upgraded to a full contract for the past two seasons.
After playing the last nine games of the 2010 season, he has played every one of the Lions' 15 matches this seasons and has been one of the defensive mainstays.
His willingness to take the game on from the back half is something the Lions' defence has otherwise struggled with.
Hanley said he was "relatively happy" with his form but not totally satisfied.
"Obviously it's a step up from last year, which I'm happy about, but there's always a few minor mistakes here and there in games which play on my mind during the week, so I'm not happy yet with my full performance," he said.
"I always strive to get better, which is a good thing."
Hanley played his junior football in the forward line, and although not expecting coach Michael Voss to move him there in a hurry, was hopeful of a move to the midfield next season.
After a seven-goal loss to Hawthorn last weekend, Hanley said the Lions were excited about playing second-placed Geelong at the Gabba on Sunday.
"Although Geelong have lost their last two in a row, we're not reading much into that, they're going to be nice and refreshed, so it should be exciting," he said.
"They've been a great outfit for five or so years, but we're excited, we're a young group and it'll be a tough test."
