Preparing for Your FCA: What Participants Need to Know

For many NDIS participants, a Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA) can feel like one of the most important, and sometimes most daunting, steps in their journey. While the process may seem clinical or overwhelming at first, understanding what to expect and how to prepare can make all the difference.

An FCA isn’t about passing or failing. It’s about ensuring your NDIS plan reflects the reality of your everyday life and the supports you need to thrive.

What is a Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA)?

A Functional Capacity Assessment is a detailed evaluation conducted by a qualified professional, such as a psychologist, occupational therapist, or another allied health provider.

The FCA looks at how your disability affects your ability to carry out daily activities. This might include:

• Self-care – things like showering, dressing, or preparing meals.

• Communication – expressing yourself, understanding others, or managing social interactions.

• Learning – acquiring new skills, following instructions, or managing concentration.

• Mobility – getting around safely, using transport, or moving within different environments.

• Social interaction – maintaining friendships, managing conflict, or working with others.

• Self-management – making decisions, organising daily life, or handling responsibilities.

The assessor gathers information not just from your words, but from reports, examples, and observations, to create a complete picture of your functional capacity.

Why is an FCA important?

Your FCA provides the functional evidence the NDIA (National Disability Insurance Agency) needs to make funding decisions. Without this evidence, there’s a risk your plan may not reflect your true needs, which can lead to underfunding or gaps in support.

With a clear and accurate FCA, you’re more likely to receive funding for the “reasonable and necessary” supports that help you:

• Build independence

• Increase community participation

• Manage daily life with greater confidence

• Access therapies, equipment, or services that make a real difference

In short: the FCA is one of the strongest tools you have to ensure your NDIS plan matches your lived experience.

How to Prepare for Your FCA

Preparation helps you feel more confident and ensures your assessor has all the information they need. Here are some practical steps to get ready:

1. Gather Your Information

Bring along any reports that give insight into your needs. This might include:

• Medical or diagnostic reports

• School or workplace records

• Notes from support workers or carers

• Therapy progress reports

The more detail you provide, the clearer the evidence will be.

2. Reflect on Your Challenges

Spend some time thinking about what daily life looks like for you. Ask yourself:

• What tasks are difficult or take longer?

• What do I avoid because it feels too overwhelming?

• What situations cause stress, frustration, or fatigue?

Write these down so you don’t forget to mention them during the assessment.

3. Consider Your Supports

Be ready to explain:

• Who helps you now (family, carers, support workers, friends)?

• What happens if that help isn’t available?

This information shows the NDIA how much support you rely on to manage everyday activities.

4. Be Honest and Realistic

An FCA is not a test. It’s not about showing your “best day” or trying to prove you’re coping. It’s about being open about the challenges you face so the assessor can present the most accurate evidence.

Feeling Confident in the Process

It’s natural to feel nervous before an FCA, but remember: the goal is not to judge you, it’s to support you. The assessment exists to ensure you get the right funding and services for your needs.

By preparing ahead of time, gathering information, and being honest about your experiences, you’ll give your assessor the tools they need to advocate on your behalf.

Final Thoughts

A Functional Capacity Assessment may feel daunting, but it’s one of the most valuable steps in your NDIS journey. It ensures your supports aren’t based on assumptions, but on the reality of your day-to-day life.

Taking the time to prepare means you’ll walk into the process with confidence, and walk out with stronger evidence to support your independence and wellbeing.