NDIS updates
What Is an NDIS Functional Capacity Assessment?
An FCA looks at how disability affects everyday life — not simply a diagnosis. Here is what the assessment covers, how it works and what a useful report should explain.
Key points
- An FCA looks at how disability affects everyday life — not simply a diagnosis.
- Here is what the assessment covers, how it works and what a useful report should explain.
What is a Functional Capacity Assessment?
A Functional Capacity Assessment, often shortened to FCA, is an assessment of how a person manages everyday activities at home, in the community, at work or study, and in relationships with others. The NDIS describes it as an official assessment of a person's ability to perform daily tasks.
An occupational therapy FCA considers the interaction between the person's abilities, their environment, the activities they need or want to do, and the support already available. A diagnosis is relevant context, but the main question is how disability affects day-to-day function.
What does an occupational therapist assess?
The areas covered depend on the reason for referral and the person's circumstances. The occupational therapist may use interviews, observation, existing reports and appropriate standardised assessments to build the picture.
- Personal care, domestic tasks and daily routines
- Mobility, transfers and access to the home and community
- Communication, cognition, regulation and decision-making
- Relationships, education, work and community participation
- Current assistance from family, support workers and other services
- Safety, risk, equipment, housing and future support needs
What happens during the assessment?
Before the appointment, the OT reviews the referral and any useful background documents. The assessment may involve the participant, family, support workers, Support Coordinator or other treating professionals, with the participant's consent.
Where clinically appropriate, appointments can happen at home, in the community or by Telehealth. Across the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Logan, a home visit can help show how the environment affects daily tasks. Telehealth can be useful for interviews, document review and follow-up, particularly for regional participants.
What should the report explain?
A useful FCA report connects the evidence. It should explain the person's current function, the assistance they require, relevant risks, goals and why each recommendation is being made. It should not rely on broad statements or assume that everyone with the same diagnosis needs the same support.
Today & Tomorrow Allied Health Services completes FCA reports within 10 business days after the final assessment appointment and receipt of the information required. Referrals are accepted for the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Logan, Scenic Rim, Northern Rivers, rural outreach areas and Telehealth across Australia.
Daily activity → Functional impact → Current support → Unmet need → Clear recommendation
Compare assessment scopes before booking
An FCA can provide functional evidence for a funding decision; it does not guarantee a particular support or budget. The right scope depends on the question being asked.
References and further reading
This article provides general information only. NDIS rules and individual circumstances can change; check current official guidance or seek advice about your situation.
Need an assessment or ongoing occupational therapy?
We respond to every referral within two business days, with mobile visits across South East Queensland and the Northern Rivers and Telehealth Australia-wide.