Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
AAP
AAP
Politics
Paul Osborne

Ex-union legal adviser to head up new workplace umpire

New Fair Work Commission chief Adam Hatcher SC has been acting president for the past three months. (James Ross/AAP PHOTOS) (AAP)

A senior barrister and former union chief legal adviser has been appointed to head the Fair Work Commission.

Adam Hatcher SC has been acting president of the commission for the past three months, having been vice president of the industrial umpire since 2013.

He has also been appointed to the Federal Court.

Workplace Relations Minister Tony Burke said Mr Hatcher would bring extensive experience to the role.

"I am confident he will continue to execute his duties with impartiality and diligence," Mr Burke said on Thursday.

The appointment will start on February 19 and follows the retirement of Justice Iain Ross.

"The government is committed to a fair, just, transparent and balanced commission," Mr Burke said.

"Its work will be more important than ever as we progress ambitious workplace relations reforms to lift wages, improve job security and close the loopholes that are undermining pay and conditions."

Mr Hatcher was admitted to the bar in 1997 and was appointed Senior Counsel in 2010.

He has also served as chief legal adviser with the NSW branch of the Transport Workers' Union.

Meanwhile, Business Council chief Jennifer Westacott is set to step down from her role she has held since 2011.

The leadership change in Australia's key business lobby is not expected to occur for another 12 to 18 months.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.