Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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What is an FCA and NDIS Funding Report?

This report is tailored to assist securing NDIS funding. The report includes an assessment of functional capacity across the 6 NDIS domains in alignment with NDIS funding guidelines. It includes:

- comprehensive recommendations for supports

- what funding amounts would be needed to provide those supports

- functional goals for client

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What are the areas looked into for a FCA?

A child functional assessment typically evaluates:

• Communication and social skills

• Emotional regulation and mental health

• Daily living skills (e.g., dressing, hygiene)

• Learning and school functioning

• Behaviour and independence

• Participation in community activities

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What is involved in the FCA process?

Our NDIS Functional Capacity Assessment process includes:

1. Parent/caregiver interview

2. Assessment sessions with your child

3. Standardised assessment tools

4. Review of existing reports (e.g., school or therapy reports)

5. Collaboration with teachers or support providers (with consent)

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How long does the assessment process take?

- Four Step Process: Gather information, Review existing reports, Interview, Observation, Feedback

- usually takes 4-weeks (including a report specifically written for NDIS funding and access to supports)
 

Can I use Medicare rebates for FCA?

- No, Generally Mental Health care plan is specific for therapy only.

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What will the FCA report include?

Your Functional Capacity Assessment report for NDIS will include:

• A detailed summary of your child’s functional strengths and challenges

• Standardised assessment results

• Clinical observations

• Recommendations for therapy, supports, and NDIS funding

• Clear justification for reasonable and necessary supports

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How does an FCA help with NDIS funding?

An FCA provides evidence-based recommendations that help the NDIS:

• Understand your child’s functional impact of disability

• Determine appropriate funding levels and support categories

• Justify therapies under Capacity Building supports

This makes FCA reports essential for NDIS access requests and plan reviews.

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Can parents be involved in the assessment?

Yes. Parent involvement is a key part of a child FCA. We include:

• Detailed parent interviews

• Ongoing feedback

• Opportunities to discuss concerns and goals

What if my child is anxious or refuses to participate?

We use a child-centred, flexible approach. Sessions are adapted to your child’s comfort level, with breaks and pacing as needed to reduce anxiety and build engagement.

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How long is an FCA report valid?

Most NDIS Functional Capacity Assessment reports remain useful for 1–2 years, although updates may be needed as your child’s needs change.

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What happens after the assessment?

After your FCA:

• You’ll receive a comprehensive report

• We can meet to explain findings and recommendations

• You can use the report for NDIS, school, or therapy planning

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Can you liaise with my child’s school or therapists?

Yes. With your consent, we collaborate with:

• Schools

• Therapy providers

• Support coordinators

This ensures consistent and coordinated support across environments.

 

What is the difference between an FCA and a diagnostic assessment?

A diagnostic assessment identifies conditions such as autism or ADHD, while a Functional Capacity Assessment focuses on how your child’s difficulties impact everyday life and what supports they need.

 

What are the first steps?

If you would like a functional capacity assessment for you or your child at Breakthrough Psychology Practice the first step will be to build a patient profile and book the initial interview and feedback appointments.

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To do this you can contact us via phone- 8978 0600 or by email our Testing Coordinator - admin@bpsychology.com.au.