Functional Capacity Assessments
At DMD Therapeutic & Behavioural Consulting, we can complete Functional Capacity Assessments (FCAs) for the individuals we support, as needed. These assessments are often required by the NDIS to demonstrate current capacity, support needs, and how disability impacts everyday life. FCAs can support plan reviews, change of circumstances requests, or applications for increased or more appropriate funding.
A Functional Capacity Assessment is a detailed report that outlines how an individual’s disability affects their ability to participate in everyday activities across a range of domains. The NDIS uses this information to understand what supports are reasonable and necessary, and how best to fund services to meet the person’s goals. FCAs provide a snapshot of current ability and identify areas where capacity building is possible with the right support.
The Process of FCA at DMD Consulting
Intake and Information Gathering
Intake and Background Review
Review of referral, NDIS plan and existing reports.
Intake discussion with participant and/or nominee.
Identification of key concerns, goals and assessment focus.
Direct Observation
1:1 sessions with the participant.
Observation of daily functioning within domains of functional capacity.
Used to understand real-world skill capacity and validate reported information.
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Assessment and Analysis
Assessment and Stakeholder Input
Administration of standardised assessments (e.g. ABAS-3, WHODAS 2.0).
Proxy input from parents/stakeholders, with supported participant input where appropriate.
Integrated discussions to gather functional examples and context.
Analysis and Interpretation
Scoring and interpreting assessment results.
Mapping functional capacity across domains.
Identifying key patterns, impacts and support needs.
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Report Development and Finalisation
Report Writing and Recommendations
Development of a structured report outlining functional capacity
Integration of assessment findings, observations and stakeholder input.
Recommendations aligned with NDIS goals and support needs.
Identification of areas requiring further assessment (e.g. OT, Physio) where outside of scope.
Review and Finalisation
Final review for clarity and alignment.
Completion and provision of report.
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Cost of Functional Capacity Assessments
Please note that the time required to complete a Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA) varies between participants. While an FCA typically involves approximately 12–15 hours of clinician time across assessment, report writing, liaison, and administration, the total hours required will depend on individual circumstances, including the complexity of support needs, whether the participant is already receiving services with our team, and whether they are a new referral.
Enquiring about a Functional Capacity Assessment
New Referrals
If you are seeking an FCA for a new participant who is not currently receiving services from our team, please submit a referral using the button below. Once received, our team will review the referral and contact you regarding service availability and next steps.
Current Participants
If you are a current participant of our service and would like to discuss completing a Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA), please submit an enquiry through the button below. Our team will review your request and contact you to discuss your needs and suitability for assessment.