NDIS Functional Capacity Assessments
FCA reports that set out functional need clearly, with recommendations written for NDIS decision-making.
We complete NDIS Functional Capacity Assessments from our Kogarah clinic for families across Sydney's St George region and the Sutherland Shire, with home, school and community observations available by arrangement.
Our Functional Capacity Assessments are designed to clearly demonstrate a participant's functional needs so they can access the right level of NDIS support — funding for therapy, assistive technology and daily supports.
Whether you're applying for the NDIS, preparing for a plan review or requesting increased funding, a clear FCA gives the NDIA the functional evidence it's looking for.
We complete FCAs for adults as well as children and teenagers. If you're an adult looking for ongoing support rather than an assessment report, our adult occupational therapy service covers daily living and self-care, return-to-work and workplace assessments, home modifications and assistive technology, and cognitive strategies for memory, planning and organisation.
What we assess
- NDIS eligibility — assessment & recommendations to support access
- Daily living skills — dressing, feeding, toileting
- Mobility, strength, balance & coordination
- Communication — understanding & expression
- Cognitive & learning skills
- Social & emotional function
- Fine motor & sensory processing
- Independence at home, school and in the community
Our FCA process
Intake & Goal Setting
We gather current concerns, NDIS goals, previous reports and input from parents, carers or support coordinators.
Assessment Sessions
Standardised tools (PEDI-CAT, BOT-3, Vineland and WHODAS-2), clinical observation and play-based assessment — in clinic, home or school.
Functional Analysis
We interpret findings in terms of independence, safety and participation, linking them to daily life impact.
NDIS-Ready Report
Reports written specifically for NDIS decision-making, with clear functional descriptions and the clinical reasoning behind each recommendation.
Recommendations
Clear, justified recommendations covering therapy type and frequency, assistive technology, support workers and environmental changes.
Review & Follow-up
We remain available to clarify findings with the NDIA, support coordinators or other providers, and to revisit recommendations as your circumstances change.
When an FCA is needed
- NDIS access applications
- Plan reviews — justifying increased therapy, support worker hours or AT
- Change of circumstances
- Transition points — starting school, moving to high school, into adulthood
- Multidisciplinary reports across OT, Physio and Speech
Timeframes & funding
Assessment sessions: 1–3 sessions depending on complexity. Report turnaround typically 2–4 weeks (urgent reviews prioritised on request). Typically funded under NDIS Capacity Building — Improved Daily Living. Clear quotes provided upfront.
See funding FAQsWhat to bring to your first appointment
- Any recent reports or assessments from other clinicians
- Your NDIS plan (if applicable) or Medicare/GP referral
- A water bottle for your child
- Comfort items, snacks or anything that helps your child settle
Frequently asked questions
How long does an FCA take?
Most assessments take 1–3 sessions depending on complexity, followed by report writing. Report turnaround is typically 2–4 weeks.
Which assessment tools do you use?
We use validated, NDIS-recognised tools including PEDI-CAT, BOT-3 and Vineland, alongside clinical observation and play-based assessment.
How is an FCA funded?
FCAs are typically funded under NDIS Capacity Building — Improved Daily Living. We provide a clear quote upfront before any work begins.
Can you write a combined OT, Physio and Speech report?
Yes — we can complete multidisciplinary FCAs across all three disciplines under one roof, which can be especially helpful for plan reviews.
What to expect on your first visit
- 1
We talk through why you've come and what you want to get out of it
- 2
Background gathering — previous reports, current concerns, day-to-day routines
- 3
Hands-on assessment or play-based observation, paced to your child's comfort
- 4
Initial impressions, suggested next steps and an opportunity to ask questions
Within a few days you'll receive a short summary, suggested goals and a recommended session schedule.
Care that works together
Occupational Therapy
Everyday skills — dressing, handwriting, play, coping with change — built around what your child wants to do.
Explore occupational therapy
Speech Therapy
Speech pathology for clearer speech, understanding language, and getting thoughts into words.
Explore speech therapy
Physiotherapy
Strength, balance and coordination for the playground, sport and keeping up with friends.
Explore physiotherapy
School Readiness Assessments
A multidisciplinary look at your child's academic, motor, social and self-care skills before they start Kindergarten — using the Bracken (BSRA-4) and PDMS-3.
Explore school readiness assessmentsReady to get started?
Speak directly with our director. No obligation — just a chat about how we can help.
Free call-backs and discovery calls are with our director, subject to availability, one per family, with no ongoing commitment.