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Functional Capacity Assessments (FCA's)
Functional Capacity Assessments (FCA)
At The Gabrielle Centre for Children (GCFC), our Functional Capacity Assessments provide a comprehensive, strengths-based understanding of a child or young person’s everyday abilities, support needs, and potential for growth.
An FCA looks beyond diagnosis. It focuses on how a child functions in their daily life – at home, school, in the community and during play – and how their environment and supports can be shaped to help them thrive.
Our assessments are grounded in relationship-based, neuro-affirming and trauma-sensitive practice, ensuring every child feels safe, understood and respected throughout the process.
What is a Functional Capacity Assessment?
A Functional Capacity Assessment is an in-depth evaluation that helps identify:
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A child’s current functional abilities
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Areas where additional support may be helpful
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The impact of sensory processing, regulation, communication, motor skills and emotional wellbeing on daily participation
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Appropriate supports, therapies and funding needs under the NDIS
It provides clear, evidence-based recommendations to support NDIS access, plan reviews, change of circumstances, or funding increases.
What Areas Do We Assess?
Our FCAs may explore:
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Self-care and daily living skills
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Sensory processing and regulation
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Emotional regulation and behaviour
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Fine and gross motor skills
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Play, attention and participation
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Social interaction and communication
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Independence and safety
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Transitions and routines
Every assessment is individualised, recognising that each child’s profile is unique.
Our Approach
At GCFC, we:
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Work from a strengths-based perspective
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Build connection and trust before assessment
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Observe children in meaningful, real-life activities
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Collaborate closely with families, schools, SWs, SPs, psychologists and other team members
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Consider the whole child: nervous system, environment, relationships and experiences
We value family insight as essential and see parents and carers as partners in the process.
What Does The Assessment Involve?
An FCA typically includes:
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Parent/carer interview and background information
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Direct assessment and observation in clinic
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Observation of the child natural environment (if appropriate ie at home completing a functional task)
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Standardised and informal assessment tools
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Review of relevant reports (SP, psychology, school, etc.)
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Collaboration with the child’s support team where appropriate
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A comprehensive written report with clear recommendations
The Report
Your FCA report will:
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Clearly describe your child’s functional strengths and challenges
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Link functional needs to NDIS domains
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Provide evidence-based justification for supports and funding
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Include practical, realistic recommendations
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Be written in NDIS-aligned language
Our reports are known for being thorough, child-centred and respectful.
Who Are FCAs For?
Functional Capacity Assessments are suitable for:
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Children accessing the NDIS for the first time
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NDIS plan reviews
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Change of circumstances applications
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When current funding is no longer meeting a child’s needs
Book An FCA
If you would like to discuss whether a Functional Capacity Assessment is right for your child, please contact our team. We are happy to talk through the process and support you in making informed decisions.