The Times Australia
The Times Australia

.

What To Expect From NDIS Functional Capacity Assessments


The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) ensures people with disabilities receive the necessary funding and services to improve their quality of life. A key component of accessing NDIS support is the Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA), a detailed evaluation that helps determine an individual’s support needs. Here's how the process works.

Understanding the Basics

The NDIS Functional Capacity Assessment is designed to evaluate how a person’s disability impacts their daily life, focusing on their ability to perform essential tasks like mobility, communication, self-care, and social participation. The assessment helps the NDIS identify the types of supports required to enhance independence and participation in the community.

FCAs are typically carried out by qualified health professionals, including occupational therapists, physiotherapists, or psychologists, depending on the individual’s needs. They use standardised tools, observations, and interviews to gather comprehensive information about the participant’s functional abilities and challenges. 

Key Components and Process

OT functional assessments are a key component of this process, helping to evaluate how an individual performs daily activities and identifying areas where support may be needed. The assessment involves comprehensive evaluation of various aspects of daily living.

The evaluator will examine physical functioning, including mobility, strength, and coordination, to determine if assistive devices or therapy are needed. Communication skills will also be assessed, focusing on speech, comprehension, and social interaction to identify any necessary supports.

Additionally, the evaluator will review self-care abilities, such as dressing, eating, and personal hygiene, to establish the level of assistance required. Cognitive and emotional functioning will be evaluated to understand how memory, decision-making, and mental health impact daily activities.

Finally, the assessment will explore social and community participation to determine any barriers to engaging in work, education, or social activities. Depending on individual circumstances, the assessment may take place in different settings, including the participant’s home, a clinic, or via telehealth.

Once completed, the assessor compiles a report outlining the participant’s strengths, challenges, and recommended supports. This report is submitted to the NDIS as part of a planning or review process. The NDIS then uses this information to allocate funding for appropriate services, such as assistive technology, therapy, or personal care assistance.

Pricing Updates

It is important to note that the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits 2025-26 replaces the former NDIS Price Guide and outlines price controls for supports and services, effective 1 July 2025.

Key updates include extending the early childhood approach age limit from 7 to 9 years and clarifying provider responsibilities, particularly around declaring and managing conflicts of interest, alongside the 2024-25 Annual Pricing Review recommendations. (1)

Challenges and Solutions

Sadly, access to healthcare remains uneven for people with disabilities. Globally, individuals with disabilities are excluded from critical cancer screening programs, denying them life-saving preventive care.

A robust FCA can help identify these gaps, ensuring NDIS plans include supports to navigate healthcare barriers, such as referrals to disability-inclusive screening programs or transportation assistance for medical appointments.

(Alt text: beautiful mother rolling wheelchair with disabled father in park near son)

To maximize the accuracy and usefulness of the assessment, participants should provide thorough details about their daily routines, difficulties, and any strategies they currently use to manage tasks. Bringing relevant documentation, such as medical records, therapy reports, or previous assessments, helps validate their needs and ensures no critical details are overlooked.

Involving family members, carers, or support workers can also provide valuable perspectives, as they often observe challenges or capabilities that the participant may not fully articulate. Additionally, clearly communicating personal goals, whether related to mobility, communication, employment, or social participation, helps assessors develop a plan that aligns with the individual’s aspirations.

Once the assessment is complete, participants receive a report outlining their functional abilities and recommended supports. This document informs the development of their NDIS plan, so reviewing it carefully for accuracy is essential.

However, the NDIS has faced cases of exploitation, such as the alleged multi-million-dollar fraud orchestrated by Khawaja Moeen Haroon. Authorities suspect funds meant for vulnerable Australians were funnelled through his companies, leaving some individuals in poor conditions. The case underscores the devastating impact of such fraud on those who rely on the scheme. (2)

If discrepancies arise or further clarification is needed, participants can discuss them with their NDIS planner or seek guidance from a disability advocate. Proactive engagement throughout the process ensures the final plan reflects their true needs, paving the way for meaningful support and improved quality of life.

Takeaway

The NDIS provides funding and services to enhance the lives of people with disabilities. A FCA is a crucial step in determining an individual’s support needs by evaluating how their disability affects daily activities like mobility, communication, self-care, and social participation.

References:

  1. "2025-26 NDIS Pricing Arrangement and Price Limits released", Source: https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10778-2025-26-ndis-pricing-arrangement-and-price-limits-released
  2. "The man suspected of an NDIS fraud worth millions", Source: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-04-02/ndis-suspected-fraud-khawaja-moeen-haroon-melbourne/105062598

Research finds Aussie Parents struggling to support their Child’s reading

A new national survey has revealed that Australian parents are feeling overwhelmed and under prepared when it ...

Times Magazine

Headless CMS in Digital Twins and 3D Product Experiences

Image by freepik As the metaverse becomes more advanced and accessible, it's clear that multiple sectors will use digital twins and 3D product experiences to visualize, connect, and streamline efforts better. A digital twin is a virtual replica of ...

The Decline of Hyper-Casual: How Mid-Core Mobile Games Took Over in 2025

In recent years, the mobile gaming landscape has undergone a significant transformation, with mid-core mobile games emerging as the dominant force in app stores by 2025. This shift is underpinned by changing user habits and evolving monetization tr...

Understanding ITIL 4 and PRINCE2 Project Management Synergy

Key Highlights ITIL 4 focuses on IT service management, emphasising continual improvement and value creation through modern digital transformation approaches. PRINCE2 project management supports systematic planning and execution of projects wit...

What AI Adoption Means for the Future of Workplace Risk Management

Image by freepik As industrial operations become more complex and fast-paced, the risks faced by workers and employers alike continue to grow. Traditional safety models—reliant on manual oversight, reactive investigations, and standardised checklist...

From Beach Bops to Alpine Anthems: Your Sonos Survival Guide for a Long Weekend Escape

Alright, fellow adventurers and relaxation enthusiasts! So, you've packed your bags, charged your devices, and mentally prepared for that glorious King's Birthday long weekend. But hold on, are you really ready? Because a true long weekend warrior kn...

Effective Commercial Pest Control Solutions for a Safer Workplace

Keeping a workplace clean, safe, and free from pests is essential for maintaining productivity, protecting employee health, and upholding a company's reputation. Pests pose health risks, can cause structural damage, and can lead to serious legal an...

The Times Features

Tricia Paoluccio designer to the stars

The Case for Nuturing Creativity in the Classroom, and in our Lives I am an actress and an artist who has had the privilege of sharing my work across many countries, touring my ...

Duke of Dural to Get Rooftop Bar as New Owners Invest in Venue Upgrade

The Duke of Dural, in Sydney’s north-west, is set for a major uplift under new ownership, following its acquisition by hospitality group Good Beer Company this week. Led by resp...

Prefab’s Second Life: Why Australia’s Backyard Boom Needs a Circular Makeover

The humble granny flat is being reimagined not just as a fix for housing shortages, but as a cornerstone of circular, factory-built architecture. But are our systems ready to s...

Melbourne’s Burglary Boom: Break-Ins Surge Nearly 25%

Victorian homeowners are being warned to act now, as rising break-ins and falling arrest rates paint a worrying picture for suburban safety. Melbourne residents are facing an ...

Exploring the Curriculum at a Modern Junior School in Melbourne

Key Highlights The curriculum at junior schools emphasises whole-person development, catering to children’s physical, emotional, and intellectual needs. It ensures early year...

Distressed by all the bad news? Here’s how to stay informed but still look after yourself

If you’re feeling like the news is particularly bad at the moment, you’re not alone. But many of us can’t look away – and don’t want to. Engaging with news can help us make ...