NDIS Functional Assessments: What's Changing in 2028

Understanding NDIS Functional Assessments: What Participants and Families Should Know The NDIS is changing how it determines who is eligible for support and how needs are funded. From 1 January 2028, access will be based on a person's functional capacity — how their disability affects everyday life — rather than diagnosis alone. This applies to both new applicants and existing participants, with current participants reassessed over a transition period. Understanding what a functional assessment involves now will help you feel prepared and confident when the time comes. What is a functional assessment? A functional assessment looks at how a person's disability affects their ability to carry out everyday activities and take part in meaningful roles. Rather than focusing on deficits, it builds a clear picture of strengths, barriers, and the supports that help someone live more independently — across areas including personal and self-care, domestic tasks, mobility and community access, social participation, education and employment, and cognitive and emotional functioning. Why it matters A well-evidenced assessment provides objective, real-world information about how disability affects daily living. This helps inform fair NDIS planning decisions and supports requests for assistive equipment, home modifications, therapy, and support workers. How FITCare can help Our occupational therapy team provides thorough, person-centred functional assessments and reports. These give participants clear, objective evidence to support their NDIS journey — whether you're preparing to apply, approaching a plan review, or seeking funding for specific supports. How to prepare A little preparation goes a long way. Before your assessment, it helps to: Reflect on your daily routine and note which activities are challenging or need assistance Think about your goals and what you'd like to achieve with NDIS support Gather relevant medical reports or previous assessments Invite a family member, carer, or support person to attend for additional insight Be open and honest about your needs, including on more difficult days A note on cost We recommend requesting a quote from your occupational therapist beforehand. Costs typically cover assessment time, travel where applicable, and report writing. For existing participants, this can often be funded through your current plan, subject to approval. Moving forward with confidence Change can feel uncertain, but you don't have to navigate it alone. Our occupational therapy team is here to support you with professionalism, empathy, and a strong commitment to your independence and goals. If you have questions about functional assessments, please get in touch. This article is for general information and reflects NDIS directions as of 2026. Please refer to official NDIS communications for the latest requirements.