A highly regarded Technical Director – Fire Safety Certification at Group DLA, Gemma brings over 20 years of specialised experience spanning fire safety compliance, building surveying, and construction project management. As an Accredited Practitioner (Fire Safety) (APFS) and Unrestricted Building Surveyor, she is recognised for her ability to deliver practical, robust, and performance-driven fire safety solutions across some of the state’s most complex building portfolios. Throughout her career, Gemma has built extensive expertise within government, institutional, and non-residential sectors, with a strong focus on education and Crown developments.
Gemma leads Group DLA’s dedicated Fire Safety Certification team, overseeing the delivery of:
- Annual Fire Safety Statement (AFSS) consultancy and sign-off
- Detailed fire safety assessments and audits for diverse asset types
- Bespoke regulatory strategies and compliance pathways
- Stakeholder liaison and client advisory services
Gemma’s leadership is defined by her unique combination of hands-on construction knowledge, deep regulatory understanding, and a collaborative, solution-oriented mindset. Her background as a construction Project Manager gives her a practical appreciation of the entire project lifecycle—from early design and compliance planning to on-site delivery and post-occupancy maintenance.
Key strengths include:
- Advanced interpretation and application of the Building Code of Australia (BCA)
- Expertise in Crown building certification frameworks
- Performance solutions for fire safety measures across new and existing assets
- Clear, strategic advice that balances safety, compliance, and operational efficiency
A trusted advisor to universities, government bodies, and private asset managers alike, Gemma works closely with stakeholders to ensure that fire safety obligations are met without compromising practicality or project timelines. Her commitment to best practice and clear communication continues to strengthen Group DLA’s reputation as a leader in technical fire safety certification.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Graduate Diploma in Building Surveying, UWS
- Bachelor of Engineering (Civil), UWS
- Diploma of Management, Frontline Management Institute
ACCREDITATIONS
- Fire Protection Association, Fire Safety Assessor Accreditation Number F058996A
- NSW Fair Trading, Building Surveyor Unrestricted, Registration Number BDC2987
- Western Australia Dept of Mines, Industry Regulation & Safety – Building Surveying Practitioner (Level 1) BSP2469
AFFILIATIONS
- Member Fire Protection Association Australia (FPAS)
- Member Association of Accredited Certifiers (ACC)
- Member Australian Institute of Building Surveyors (AIBS)
- National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC)
