A Functional Capacity Assessment is one of the most important documents in an NDIS participant’s plan. Getting it right matters.
Blue Water Physio provides NDIS Functional Capacity Assessments delivered by AHPRA-registered physiotherapists across the Gold Coast and Northern NSW, with in-home assessments and clear, evidence-based reports.
What is a Functional Capacity Assessment?
A Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA) is a detailed clinical assessment that examines how a participant’s disability affects their ability to carry out everyday activities. It looks at areas including mobility, self-care, communication, domestic tasks, cognitive function, and community participation.
The resulting report provides the NDIS with objective evidence of a participant’s support needs and functional limitations. It is used to inform funding decisions, support plan reviews, and identify where additional support may be reasonable and necessary.
An FCA provides clinical evidence to inform NDIS decisions. Funding outcomes remain the responsibility of the NDIA.
When is an FCA needed?
- First-time NDIS access requests
- Scheduled or unscheduled plan reviews
- Change of circumstances where support needs have increased or changed
- Requests for additional supports or assistive technology
Our process
We begin with a discussion to understand the purpose of the assessment and what areas need to be covered. The assessment itself is conducted in your home or another relevant environment, allowing us to observe real-world function in context. A clear, evidence-based written report is then prepared and provided to the participant, their support coordinator, or the NDIA as directed.
Funding your FCA
FCAs are typically funded through the Capacity Building budget under Improved Daily Living. We accept agency-managed, plan-managed, and self-managed participants.
How to refer
Referrals are accepted from participants, carers, support coordinators, LACs, and other allied health professionals. No GP referral is required.
We conduct assessments across the Gold Coast and Northern NSW, including Robina, Southport, Helensvale, Coomera, Tweed Heads, Murwillumbah, and Ballina.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA)?
An FCA is a detailed clinical assessment that examines how a disability affects a participant’s ability to carry out everyday activities. The resulting report is used by the NDIS to inform funding and support decisions.
Can a physiotherapist conduct an NDIS FCA?
Yes. AHPRA-registered physiotherapists are qualified to conduct FCAs, particularly where physical function, mobility, and movement-related disability are the primary areas being assessed.
How long does an FCA take?
This depends on the complexity of the participant’s needs and the scope of the assessment. We discuss timing and process with you at the initial enquiry stage.
How is an FCA funded through NDIS?
FCAs are typically funded under Capacity Building, Improved Daily Living. We accept agency-managed, plan-managed, and self-managed participants.
When should an NDIS participant get an FCA?
An FCA is most useful before a plan review, when requesting additional supports, or when circumstances have changed significantly. Your support coordinator or LAC can help determine the right timing.
Can the FCA be conducted at home?
Yes. We conduct assessments in the participant’s home or another relevant environment. In-home assessment often provides more useful information as it allows us to observe function in context.
