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NDIS functional capacity assessment: what it is and how to prepare

Not a test you pass or fail. A professional description of how disability affects everyday activities.

  • Practice checklist

    Questions

    About a typical hard day.

  • A planning conversation

    A conversation

    Practice only — not the NDIA.

  • You do not have to do this alone

    With someone

    A carer or nominee can help.

General information only. Not the NDIA, not a diagnosis, and not a funding decision. Rules change — check ndis.gov.au before you act.

What an FCA actually is

It looks at function across mobility, self-care, communication, social life, learning, and self-management.

  • Mobility and movement
  • Self-care
  • Communication
  • Social and relationships
  • Learning
  • Self-management

Who can do one

  • Occupational therapists
  • Physiotherapists
  • Psychologists
  • Speech pathologists

How to prepare

  1. Describe a typical hard day.
  2. Include prompting and supervision.
  3. Bring a carer statement and a diary.
  4. Name how often hard days come.
  5. Rehearse the questions.

Prepare with the Reassessment Prep Pack →

Common questions

What is an FCA?

A report describing how disability affects everyday activities and how much support you need.

Who can complete one?

A qualified allied health professional, commonly an occupational therapist.

How much does it cost?

It varies. Ask for a quote, and check whether your current plan can fund it.

Related: I-CAN v6 · Plan review prep · Carer statement