What Is a Functional Capacity Assessment — and Why Might You Need One?

At Forbes Care, our Occupational Therapists are often asked to complete Functional Capacity Assessments (FCAs) for clients who are already accessing NDIS supports. These assessments provide a clear, evidence-based picture of how someone manages daily life — and what supports they may need to live as independently and meaningfully as possible.

Whether you're preparing for a plan reassessment or gathering supporting evidence for increased supports, an FCA can play a crucial role in ensuring your needs and goals are clearly understood and well represented.

What Is a Functional Capacity Assessment?

A Functional Capacity Assessment is a detailed Occupational Therapy report that outlines a person’s abilities and challenges in relation to everyday activities — things like:

• Personal care (showering, dressing, grooming)
• Mobility and transfers
• Communication and social participation
• Meal preparation and nutrition
• Domestic tasks (cleaning, laundry, shopping)
• Community access and transport
• Work, study, and leisure
• Emotional regulation and cognitive functioning

The assessment highlights what the person can do independently, where support is needed, and how disability impacts functional performance in key areas of life.

Why Might You Need an FCA?

You might need a Functional Capacity Assessment as part of:

• A scheduled NDIS plan reassessment
• A review of supports when needs have changed
• An application for assistive technology or home modifications
• A request for increased funding based on updated evidence
• Clarifying the level of support required for goal achievement

At Forbes Care, we ensure every FCA is individualised, strengths-based, and clinically robust — clearly linking observed needs with practical, achievable recommendations.

What’s Involved in the Assessment?

A Functional Capacity Assessment typically includes:

• A comprehensive interview with the participant (and their family or support team, if appropriate)
• Observation of daily tasks in the home or community
• Review of relevant reports and supporting documentation
• Goal setting — identifying what’s important to the person

Once complete, your Occupational Therapist will write a detailed report outlining current functional abilities, barriers to independence, and recommended supports — from therapy and support hours to equipment, carer training, or environmental adjustments.

How We Approach FCAs at Forbes Care

We understand that a Functional Capacity Assessment can feel daunting — especially when it may influence NDIS funding decisions. Our therapists approach every assessment with:

• Respect, empathy, and curiosity
• Clear communication — explaining the process step by step
• A focus on what matters to you
• Evidence-based reasoning to support NDIS planners in understanding your needs

Our goal is to ensure that you feel heard, supported, and well represented, and that your plan reflects your true level of function and priorities for living well.

Need an FCA? We’re Here to Help.

Forbes Care provides Functional Capacity Assessments under the NDIS, as well as Home Care Packages, DVA, and private funding. We work collaboratively with clients, families, and support coordinators to ensure the process is thorough, respectful, and clinically sound.

If you're planning for a review or seeking clarity on support needs, our team is here to help you take the next step with confidence.

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