Dr Tomison said Dr Hill has over 30 years’ experience in legal practice and has held leading positions in government and private practice.
“Dr Hill is a well-respected leader in the legal profession. He is known for his sharp legal skills and for being an excellent people manager and financial administrator.”
“He will bring to this important role his expertise in civil litigation, administrative law, constitutional law, dispute resolution, and employment law,” Dr Tomison said.
“His deep understanding of the government client and leadership success in law-related organisations will ensure the continued provision of high-quality legal services."
“I would also like to thank Angela Komninos for her excellent service acting in the State Solicitor role since Judge Nicholas Egan PSM was appointed to the District Court.”
Dr Hill comes to the State Solicitor's Office (SSO) from Legal Aid WA, where he has been the Director and Chief Executive Officer for the past five years.
During that time, Legal Aid grew to more than 365 staff with 10 offices throughout WA, 16 virtual offices and 53 outreach locations.
Under his leadership, Legal Aid increased its services and launched significant, innovative programs to benefit the community.
Before moving to WA, Dr Hill was a partner in a Melbourne law firm and then General Counsel to the Department of the Premier and Cabinet in Victoria, where he handled all litigation, managed legislation through Parliament, and gave legal and legal policy advice.
Dr Hill has also previously headed Tasmania Legal Aid and been a Deputy Secretary at the Victorian Department of Justice.
He has a Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor of Economics and Master of Laws from Monash University and a specialist doctorate in law from the University of Melbourne.
"Most major government initiatives are implemented with the benefit of sound legal advice from the State Solicitor's Office,” Dr Hill said.
“The SSO is a centre of legal excellence in WA, blending government expertise with commercial know-how.
“I look forward to continuing to serve the public interest through strategic advice and practical legal solutions.”
His appointment by Dr Tomison followed a merit-based selection process.
Dr Hill will start work as State Solicitor on 29 May and Ms Komninos will continue in her senior role as Deputy State Solicitor.
