Cook has been a key adviser to public and private sector organisations for more than a decade. His areas of practice cover all aspects of employment and workplace relations, including workplace agreements, restructuring and classification reviews, unfair dismissals, employee fraud and misconduct.

John Weber, head of the firm’s government practice and managing partner of the Canberra office, said the appointment was a significant boon for Minters.

“Employers today face an ever-increasing range of workplace-related issues that go the very heart of the effectiveness of their organisations,” Weber said.

“[Cook] is highly regarded in Canberra for his pragmatic and solutions-based approach. Not only does he bring additional depth to our practice, but his unique combination of government experience reinforced by an in-depth understanding of the challenges facing the corporate sector also enhances the value we offer our clients.”