What is a Functional Capacity Assessment for the NDIS?
- claire2876
- Apr 14
- 2 min read
What is a Functional Capacity Assessment?
A Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA) is a comprehensive report typically written by an occupational therapist or speech pathologist. It provides detailed information about a person’s abilities, challenges, and support needs in everyday activities such as self-care, communication, mobility, social participation, and decision-making.
The goal of the assessment is to support access or ongoing eligibility for NDIS funding by demonstrating how a person’s disability impacts their functional skills and daily life.
Why Would You Need a Functional Assessment for the NDIS?
NDIS planners and Local Area Coordinators (LACs) use functional reports to make decisions about what supports are reasonable and necessary. These reports may be required when:
Applying for NDIS access (Access Request)
Reviewing or renewing your NDIS plan
Requesting increased support (e.g., for housing, therapy, assistive technology)
Seeking specific funding (e.g., Core or Capacity Building supports)
What Does a Functional Capacity Report Include?
Each report is unique to the person being assessed, but a quality FCA generally includes:
Personal background and goals
Overview of diagnosis and disability
Current supports and informal networks
Detailed assessment of functional skills in areas like:
Personal care (e.g. dressing, showering)
Domestic tasks (e.g. cooking, cleaning)
Community access
Communication and social interaction
Executive functioning and cognition
Standardised assessment tools, such as:
Vineland-3 Adaptive Behaviour Scales
WHODAS 2.0
PEDI-CAT (for children)
Recommendations for therapy, assistive technology, or home supports
Linkage to NDIS goals and functional impact
How Functional Assessments Inform NDIS Planning
An FCA helps demonstrate the link between a person’s disability and their support needs. NDIS planners use this evidence to determine:
The type and amount of therapy
Whether daily living or community participation supports are needed
Whether assistive technology or home modifications are justified
Eligibility for higher-intensity supports like Supported Independent Living (SIL)
Reports should also include real-life examples and outcome-based goals to strengthen funding decisions.
Tips for Participants Preparing for an FCA
Bring a support person or family member who knows your day-to-day needs
Share past reports, school or therapy documents
Be open about daily challenges and what supports have (or haven’t) worked
Think about future goals — what do you want to do, achieve, or change?
Who Can Complete a Functional Capacity Report?
Occupational Therapists (OTs) often lead FCAs, focusing on self-care, daily living, and physical or cognitive function.
Speech Pathologists (SPs) may also contribute, particularly where communication, swallowing, or social participation is affected.
Final Thoughts
A Functional Capacity Assessment is more than just a report — it’s a vital tool that helps NDIS participants access the supports they need to live more independently and reach their goals. A high-quality FCA paints a clear picture of someone’s everyday life, abilities, and where additional help can make a difference.
