Functional Capacity Assessments

What is a Functional Capacity Assessment?

A Functional Capacity Assessment measures how your disability affects your ability to perform the activities you need and would like to do in daily life. It covers six core domains:

• •Mobility and transfer: Moving around the home, using public transport, climbing stairs or ramps
• •Daily living tasks: Preparing meals, cleaning, personal care, managing medications
• •Communication and social interaction: Expressing needs, engaging with others, community participation
• •Self-management: Managing finances, scheduling, making decisions about your own life
• •Learning: Understanding information, problem-solving, adapting to new situations
• •Social participation and work: Employment readiness, volunteering, community engagement

Who needs a Functional Capacity Assessment?

FCAs are commonly required for:

• •NDIS plan reviews — to provide evidence for changed circumstances or increased support needs
• •Supported Independent Living (SIL) applications — to demonstrate your level of support requirements
• •Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) assessments — when specialist housing is being considered
• •Individualised Living Options (ILO) — to identify flexible support arrangements

What happens during the assessment?

Carmen conducts a thorough, person-centred assessment that includes:

1. Initial consultation: We discuss your goals, history, and what daily life looks like for you right now. This is conducted in-person at your home.
2. Direct observation: Carmen observes you performing key activities to understand your current level of independence and where supports are needed.
3. Standardised tools: Where appropriate, validated assessment instruments are used to provide objective measures of function.
4. Informant interviews: With your consent, Carmen may speak with family members, support workers, or other health professionals to build a full picture of your needs.

The report you receive

Within 5–10 business days, you'll receive a comprehensive report that clearly presents:

• •Your assessment findings across each functional domain
• •Identification of your strengths as well as areas requiring support
• •Specific, evidence-based recommendations for NDIS funding and supports
• •A clear statement of your functional capacity with supporting rationale

These reports are accepted by NDIA planners and are written in plain language so you can understand them, even if you're not familiar with the NDIS process.

Serving Brisbane Northside & Moreton Bay

Carmen provides Functional Capacity Assessments for NDIS participants across Redcliffe, Petrie, Kallangur, Caboolture, Deception Bay, Albany Creek, Chermside, Aspley and surrounding areas.