Kendall Draper

Kendall Draper commenced as Consul and Trade and Investment Commissioner (Osaka) in 2024.

She is a proud Aboriginal woman, with a diverse background spanning national security, international relations, and trade promotion. Kendall has experience in fostering global connections and facilitating investment opportunities and promoting Australian businesses on the international stage.

Before her current role, Kendall supported Australian technology companies in expanding their global footprint. As Director of the Austrade Technology team, she championed cyber security, quantum, and artificial intelligence businesses, forging strategic partnerships and opening doors to international markets.

Her tenure as the Global Talent Officer in Singapore from 2020 to 2022 saw Kendall promoting Australia's Global Talent Visa Program across Southeast Asia. Working closely with businesses, industries, and academic institutions, she identified and nurtured exceptional talent and high-growth enterprises, facilitating their relocation and expansion into Australia.

Before her international postings, Kendall spent six years at the Department of Home Affairs. She performed a number of roles including Executive Officer to the Deputy Secretary. Her expertise encompassed emergency management, aviation and maritime security, critical infrastructure, and identity security.

Kendall began her public service career in 2016 at the Attorney-General's Department, employed as a Graduate. She holds a Bachelor of Justice Studies from the University of Canberra. She has furthered her education with a Graduate Certificate in Business Administration and Digital Marketing and Communications from Monash University.