Functional capacity assessment in Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

Functional capacity assessment rates in Canberra typically range from $193.99/hour for an OT (NDIS Improved Daily Living rate, 2026-27 NDIS Pricing Schedule); a full FCA usually runs several hours plus report writing. The cost varies depending on the complexity of the assessment, the number of sessions required, the disciplines involved, and the length of the written report. A straightforward single-discipline assessment is less expensive than a complex multi-area assessment involving multiple therapists and detailed recommendations.

FCAs are funded under NDIS Capacity Building Supports, 'Improved Daily Living.' Your plan must include this budget category. The assessment fee covers the therapist's time for interviews, direct assessment, collateral contacts, report writing, and any travel to your home or another assessment location. Report writing is often the most time-intensive component and may account for a significant portion of the total fee.

Some NDIS participants have funding specifically allocated for an FCA in their current plan. Others may need to request this from their Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or Support Coordinator before an assessment can begin. If you are preparing for a plan review, an FCA can be one of the most useful pieces of evidence you can provide.

Private clients can also commission an FCA outside the NDIS context, for example for insurance, legal, or employment purposes. Private rates may differ from NDIS rates.

Functional capacity assessments in Canberra are almost always funded through the NDIS, though other funding sources exist for specific purposes.

NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme): FCAs are funded under Capacity Building Supports, 'Improved Daily Living.' If your current plan includes this budget, you can engage a provider directly or through your Support Coordinator. If you do not have this funding, contact your LAC or Support Coordinator to discuss whether it can be arranged before your plan review. A well-evidenced FCA can significantly support a request for increased funding in a new plan.

Support Coordination: If you have Support Coordination funding in your NDIS plan, your coordinator can help you identify suitable FCA providers in Canberra, arrange the assessment, and use the report to advocate for your plan needs.

Insurance and legal: Private individuals may commission an FCA for workers' compensation, transport accident, or personal injury claims. These are usually paid by the insurer or legal representative and are priced differently from NDIS assessments.

Private payment: Individuals can pay privately for an FCA if they need one outside the NDIS context or while waiting for NDIS access. Private clients should ask providers for a fixed-price quote before proceeding to avoid unexpected costs.

A functional capacity assessment is a structured evaluation of how your disability or health condition affects your ability to carry out daily tasks and participate in life. It is carried out by a qualified allied health professional and results in a written report.

The assessment typically involves an interview about your daily routine, goals, and challenges, direct observation or testing of physical and cognitive functions, a review of your current supports and what gaps exist, and discussions with family members, carers, or other professionals involved in your care. The assessor may visit you at home to observe your environment and how you manage within it.

Once the assessment is complete, the therapist writes a report that summarises your functional profile, identifies your support needs, and makes recommendations for NDIS funding categories, support types, and reasonable and necessary supports. This report is a clinical document submitted to the NDIS as evidence for your plan.

Turnaround times for reports vary. Simple assessments may be completed within two to three weeks. Complex multi-area assessments can take longer. Ask your provider for an estimated timeline before the assessment begins, particularly if you have a plan review date approaching.

You are entitled to a copy of the completed report. Read it carefully before it is submitted to the NDIS and raise any factual errors or omissions with the assessor promptly.