Functional capacity assessments for adults.
A functional capacity assessment is a written, evidence-based report that explains what you can do day-to-day, what gets in the way, and what supports would help. We complete them for NDIS plan reviews, access requests, and other contexts where structured evidence of function is needed.
What's in the report.
A clinical FCA is a structured document used by the NDIA, plan managers, and support coordinators to make decisions about funding. It is also one of the most important pieces of evidence in any plan review. Ours follow a clear, consistent structure:
- A clear summary at the front, written for the participant. One page. No jargon.
- Background and history — diagnoses, relevant medical context, current supports.
- Standardised assessments — using validated tools (such as the WHODAS, Lawton IADL, COPM, or others) appropriate to the person's situation.
- Functional impact across self-care, mobility, communication, social and community participation, learning, work, and self-management.
- Recommendations for support categories, types of assistance, and where applicable, assistive technology.
- Goals and outcomes aligned to the participant's own words.
What happens, step by step.
Referral and intake
You or your support coordinator gets in touch. We confirm capacity, plan management type, and what you want the report to support.
Assessment session
One or two sessions, usually 90 minutes each, in person or by telehealth. We talk through your daily life, run any standardised assessments needed, and gather supporting documents.
Report drafting
We write the report carefully. A clear summary first, then the clinical detail. We do not pad the page count.
Review and delivery
You review a draft summary before the final version is sent. The full report goes to you, your support coordinator, and anyone else you've asked us to share it with.
Who an FCA is for.
An FCA is most commonly used by adults who:
- Are preparing for an NDIS plan review and need structured evidence of how their support needs have changed.
- Are applying to the NDIS for the first time and need a functional impact report.
- Have had a significant change in their situation — a new diagnosis, a hospital stay, a loss of a carer — and need to demonstrate how their function has shifted.
- Are seeking funding for higher-cost supports such as home modifications or complex assistive technology.
If you are not sure whether an FCA is what you need, get in touch for a free 15-minute call. We will tell you honestly.
Common questions about FCAs.
How long is the report?
It varies. Most FCAs are 15-25 pages. We never write to a length — we write to clarity. A short, clear report is more useful to the NDIA than a long, vague one.
How is it billed?
Billed against your Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living budget at the current NDIS Pricing Arrangements rate. The total typically covers eight to twelve hours: assessment session(s), report writing, and any follow-up. We provide a written estimate before starting.
Will I see a draft before it's final?
Yes. We always show you the summary before sending the final report anywhere. You should never be surprised by what's written about you.
Can my support coordinator be in the room?
Yes, with your consent. Many participants find it helpful to have their SC in the assessment session. Up to you.
What if I disagree with something in the report?
Tell us. We will discuss it. If we think the clinical evidence supports a different conclusion, we will explain why. If you raise something we missed, we will revise. The report has to be both accurate and yours.