A functional capacity assessment helps the NDIS understand how your disability impacts your everyday life and what supports will help you live more independently.These assessments look at important areas like your well-being, independence, support needs, mobility, communication, self-management, learning and self-care, giving a clear picture of the supports you need to live as independently as possible.
At Everyday Independence, our qualified occupational therapists complete NDIS functional capacity assessments, also known as a functional capacity test or functional capacity evaluation (FCE). These assessments provide clear, evidence-based information that help you secure funding tailored to your specific needs.
A functional capacity assessment is a detailed evaluation of how you manage everyday activities at home, in the community, at school, or at work. It evaluates your abilities and needs across 35 key life tasks, including communication, mobility, self-care, social participation, and learning. It looks beyond diagnosis and focusses on what you can do, where you need support, and what will help you achieve your goals under the NDIS.
This assessment is ideal for individuals who require less than six hours of daily support and are not planning to move to a different accommodation in the near future.
This assessment is often requested by:
The assessment may take place in your home, community, workplace, school, or clinic — depending on what best reflects your daily life.
The assessment typically takes around 6-8 hours, but the actual time may vary based on individual needs.
If you’re unsure about whether you need a functional capacity assessment, here are some specific examples of situations in which it may be beneficial:
Read our blog article on the difference between an occupational assessment and a functional capacity assessment if you’d like to know more about each assessment.
Once the assessment is completed, our team will reach out to discuss your next steps and ensure a smooth continuation of your therapy journey.
NDIS functional capacity assessments are completed by qualified occupational therapists with experience in disability and NDIS processes.
At Everyday Independence, our therapists:
Understand NDIS language and evidence requirements
Focus on strengths as well as support needs
Work collaboratively with participants, families, and support teams
Provide clear, practical recommendations — not generic reports
The assessment typically takes around 6-8 hours. However the length of a functional capacity test can vary depending on individual needs and complexity.
Most assessments include:
One or more assessment sessions
Time for analysis and report writing
Your therapist will explain the process and timeframes clearly before starting.
After your functional capacity evaluation, you’ll receive a comprehensive report that:
Clearly explains your functional capacity
Links assessment findings to everyday life
Aligns recommendations with NDIS funding categories
Can be used for reviews, or planning meetings
The report can be shared with the NDIS, support coordinators, and other professionals involved in your supports.
You may benefit from a functional capacity assessment if you:
Need clearer evidence to support your goals
If you’re unsure, our team can help you decide whether a functional capacity test or evaluation is appropriate.
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