Qualifications and Professional Memberships

• MPA, LLM (International), LLB

Biography

George Lai joined Group Colleges Australia in 2024 and holds the position of Compliance Manager and Campus Manager (Melbourne). He brings a strong background in both law and accounting to his role. His diverse expertise enhances his ability to manage compliance matters.

Before moving to Australia, George worked as a Compliance Officer at Mizuho Corporate Bank. After completing his studies at La Trobe University and the University of Tasmania, he resumed his career as a Compliance Officer and later advanced to the role of Compliance Manager for multi-sector education providers operating in both Australia and New Zealand.

With more than a decade of experience in the education industries of both Australia and New Zealand, George’s expertise spans a broad range of areas, including higher education (HE), vocational education and training (VET), English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS), foundation programs, and secondary school education. Throughout his career, George has worked closely with a wide range of stakeholders, including external consultants, service providers, and government bodies at both Commonwealth and state levels.

His professional strengths include conducting internal audits, promoting self-regulation, and ensuring compliance across organisations. George has also coordinated key projects, such as re-registrations for higher education providers, CRICOS re-registrations, course re-accreditations, and PRISMS-related reporting. He made significant contributions to the successful re-registration and national CRICOS registration, which were approved for the maximum periods without any conditions.

Outside of work, George enjoys cycling, reading, and learning new languages. He has a special fondness for roses, which he enjoys cultivating in his spare time.