Industrial Relations Minister Stephen Dawson has today announced two appointments to the Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission.
Stephen Kenner has been appointed as the Chief Commissioner from May 5, 2021, while Perth-based barrister Rachel Cosentino has been appointed as Senior Commissioner from June 8, 2021.
Mr Kenner is a long-standing member of the Commission, having been first appointed a commissioner in 1998. He has been in the position of Senior Commissioner since 2016 and has presided over a wide range of industrial disputes and employment issues in the State industrial relations system.
Mr Kenner was a partner at a major law firm prior to his appointment to the Commission in 1998.
Ms Cosentino, a barrister at Francis Burt Chambers, has extensive industrial relations and litigation experience. Prior to joining the Bar, Ms Cosentino headed up the General Law Division at Slater & Gordon Lawyers.
As stated by Industrial Relations Minister Stephen Dawson:
“I am very pleased to announce the appointment of Stephen Kenner as Chief Commissioner and Rachel Cosentino as Senior Commissioner of the Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission.
“The Commission has presided over industrial relations issues in Western Australia for well over 100 years. Mr Kenner and Ms Cosentino are an excellent choice to hold the two most senior positions in the Commission.
“The McGowan Government is working to progress reforms to the State industrial relations system as a legislative priority. The Commission will have an expanded role to play once these reforms are implemented.
“I congratulate Mr Kenner and Ms Cosentino on their appointments.”
