Ms Perkins has been promoted from her current role as Director of Policy and Strategy within the Disability Services Commission.

Her appointment follows the promotion earlier this week of acting director general Eddie Bartnik to become the State's first Mental Health Commissioner.

"I am confident the 20 years of experience Ms Perkins brings to her new role will build on the valuable work of Eddie Bartnik, who I sincerely thank for his contribution to this important portfolio," Mrs McSweeney said.

"I look forward to working collaboratively with Ms Perkins on issues affecting West Australian seniors and volunteers and building on and delivering better quality childcare to families.

"From my early discussions with Ms Perkins, I am pleased she also shares my goals of delivering better community services to the State's carers.

Ms Perkins holds a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts (Public Policy) from Murdoch University and a Bachelor of Social Work and Social Administration (Honours) from The University of Western Australia, with her career spanning non-government, local and State government roles.

The five-year appointment begins on August 16. The position had been advertised nationally.