Helen Dai

Helen Dai started her posting as the Deputy Consul-General (Commercial) and Trade and Investment Commissioner at the Australian Consulate-General in Chengdu in 2024. Helen leads Austrade’s Greater China Health and Technology team and the West China team.

In this capacity, Helen is responsible for leading the Austrade’s Post in Chengdu. This post covers south-west China, the country’s fastest growing region. It promotes Australian exports, investment attraction and international education. Helen also has responsibility for leading the Commission’s Health and Technology Team in Greater China. Previously with Austrade, Helen has served in Taipei, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong.

Helen has over 16 years of experience working in the Australian Government. This includes working as a foreign investment specialist at the Australian Treasury, and at a Treasury Minister’s office. Helen began her public service career at the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). With DFAT she was posted to the Australian Embassy in Jakarta from 2010 to 2013 as Consul.

In 2019, she was recognised in the inaugural 40 under 40 Most Influential Asian-Australian Awards for her impact in public service and commercial diplomacy. Helen is passionate about good public policy and how it can improve the lives of people and the planet.

Helen was an Asia Global Fellow at Hong Kong University in 2023. She holds a master’s degree in economic policy from the Australian National University. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in philosophy, finance, and accounting from the University of Sydney. She is a qualified CPA.