Helen is an experienced urban planner with considerable experience in statutory planning, environmental and social impact assessment and community consultation. Since 1992, she has been Director, Environmental Affairs Pty Ltd, a specialist urban and environmental planning practice.

Helen has worked on transport infrastructure (road, rail and airport) projects throughout Australia and has international experience in India, Vietnam, Indonesia, Kiribati and New Zealand. She also has extensive experience in the design and conduct of community consultation programs.

In addition to her appointment to the Mint Inc, Helen is a Sessional Member of Planning Panels Victoria. She was a member of the Advisory Committee that undertook a review of heritage provisions in the Victoria Planning Provisions in 2007. Helen is also a member of the Liquor Licensing Panels which conducts hearing where objections are lodged to applications for liquor licences.

Helen was a Member of the Heritage Council of New South Wales (1987-90) and a Member of the Historic Buildings Council, Victoria (1985-86) (now Heritage Council).

Helen is a Fellow of the Planning Institute of Australia and Certified Practicing Planner and a Member of the Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand and a Certified Environmental Practitioner.