VMBSG Annual
State Conference
2026
MEET THE KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Dr Nicole Bijlsma PhD, ND, BHScAc(HONS), Grad Dip OHS, Adv. Dip. Building Biology
Dr Nicole Bijlsma is a building biologist, bestselling author of Healthy Home Healthy Family, and founder of the Healthy Home (Building Biology) movement in Australia. She established the Australian College of Environmental Studies in 1999 — a Registered Training Organisation delivering the nation’s only accredited training in Electromagnetic Field Testing and Mould Testing, through which she has trained more than 400 restorers and tradespersons.
Nicole co-authored the RACV insurer report The Perfect Storm: Implications of Mould in Australian Homes, and served as a committee member for the development of Australia’s first national Standard on mould. She was also the lead author of the first randomised controlled trial investigating the effects of Wi-Fi exposure on sleep in real-world conditions.
With over 30 years of tertiary teaching experience and numerous publications in peer-reviewed journals, Nicole is a respected authority on environmental health. She is regularly consulted by the media and lectures nationally and internationally on the health impacts of mould, electromagnetic fields, and toxic chemicals.
ABOUT THE PRESENTATION
Water-Damaged Buildings: Opportunities and Ramifications for Building Surveyors
Water damage remains one of the most frequent and costly building defects in Australia, often leading to disputes, structural degradation, and occupant health issues. This presentation explores the technical, and professional implications of water intrusion and mould growth for building surveyors. It will examine common construction failures contributing to water damage, highlight current standards and inspection protocols, and outline how surveyors can identify risks early, document evidence effectively, and work alongside remediation professionals to ensure compliance and occupant safety.
The session will also discuss future opportunities for surveyors to expand their scope of services through preventative auditing, post-remediation verification, and collaboration with environmental health experts.