Western Australia has appointed Chamber of Minerals and Energy chief executive Rebecca Tomkinson as its next agent general to the UK and Europe, as the state ramps up efforts to attract foreign investment into key sectors including mining, energy and defence.

Premier Roger Cook on Tuesday confirmed Tomkinson would take over the London-based role from Angela Kelly, who will complete her nine-month term in July.

Tomkinson will oversee the operations of the Invest and Trade WA offices in London and Frankfurt, acting as the Western Australian government's 'front door' to assist investors and businesses wanting to engage with the state's industries.

“The UK and Europe are critical to the diversification and decarbonisation of our State's economy, with strong interest across a number of sectors, including energy, mining and the defence industries,” said Cook.

The agent general plays a key role in supporting inbound investment and promoting trade from the UK, Europe and Israel. WA’s trade with the region reached A$16.6-billion in 2024, making it the state's fourth-largest trading partner.

Tomkinson’s appointment comes as Western Australia eyes a wave of demand for critical minerals, renewable-energy projects and value-added processing – areas where European investors and manufacturers are seeking reliable and low-carbon supply chains.

As the current head of the CME, Tomkinson has championed Western Australia’s resources industry during a period of tight labour markets, infrastructure pressure and energy transition debates. She brings a background spanning public, private and not-for-profit leadership roles.

“Tomkinson brings a proven track record as a passionate advocate for Western Australian industry to the role, as well as the energy and drive required to make the role a success,” Cook said.

The government noted that Tomkinson would also focus on skilled migration strategies targeting tradespeople, builders and health workers in the UK to meet labour demand in Western Australia’s growing economy.

The state continues to emphasise its role in the AUKUS pact and in supplying the critical minerals and clean energy inputs required by defence and industrial sectors in allied nations.

“Tomkinson will make a vital contribution to my government's vision of Western Australia remaining the strongest economy in the nation, and there being no better place to get a quality job,” Cook said.

The government also paid tribute to outgoing agent general Kelly.