Michelle Baxter has been confirmed as the CEO of Safe Work Australia, having served in the role on a “short-term” basis for the past two years.

Federal Employment Minister Michaelia Cash says Ms Baxter was the “highest-ranked candidate in a competitive field”.

“Ms Baxter is a highly suitable appointee with more than 20 years of public sector experience,” Senator Cash said.

“In carrying out her current duties as CEO, Ms Baxter has successfully pursued the Government’s red tape reduction agenda by leading an examination to improve model work health and safety laws, making it easier for businesses and workers to comply.”

Ms Baxter was appointed interim CEO for a year from last November, and had acted in the position for a year before that. The new appointment is for a five-year term.

She is a lawyer and has worked in the public sector for 20 years, including senior management positions with the Rehabilitation and Compensation Commission, the Office of the Fair Work Ombudsman and the former Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations.

Safe Work Australia was established in 2009 to lead development of policy to improve work health and safety, and workers’ compensation nationwide.