Occupational Therapists (OTs) play a vital role in helping National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participants achieve greater independence, safety and quality of life. The NDIS system can be hard to navigate independently due to misinformation that can circulate on social media and news platforms.
Whether it’s assessing functional capacity, recommending assistive technology, or supporting applications for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) or Supported Independent Living (SIL), OTs provide the professional evidence and practical solutions that make these supports possible.
1. Functional Capacity Assessments
A Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA) is often the starting point for many participants. This assessment explores how a person manages their daily tasks — such as self-care, mobility, communication, and community participation.
OTs use clinical observation, standardised assessments, and interviews with the participant and their support network to identify strengths, challenges, and goals. The results are then translated into an evidence-based report that helps the NDIS understand what supports are needed to determine funding categories for the participants plan.
An FCA can:
- Demonstrate the impact of a disability on daily life
- Identify reasonable and necessary supports under the NDIS
- Provide a baseline for goal-setting and progress measurement
Ultimately, the FCA becomes a roadmap for accessing and maintaining supports that align with the participant’s functional needs.
2. Assistive Technology (AT) Requests
Assistive Technology (AT) — such as mobility aids (powered wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs, four wheeled walkers, walking sticks, etc), communication devices, bedroom equipment (hi-lo beds and pressure mattresses) or bathroom equipment (commodes, shower chairs, shower stools, bath transfer benches and many more), Transfer aids (floor hoists, standing hoist, non-mechanical transfer aids such as but not limited to sara steady, patient turner, transfer board and many more) — can significantly enhance independence and safety.
Occupational Therapists help participants:
- Identify the most suitable AT based on their abilities and environment
- Conduct trials and make recommendations
- Provide clinical justification and detailed quotes for NDIS funding approval
- Train the participant and their supports in safe and effective use
NDIS requires that AT funding requests be supported by clear, evidence-based reports. OTs are skilled in linking functional limitations to the need for specific equipment, ensuring the recommendations meet NDIS criteria for “reasonable and necessary” supports.
3. Home Modifications
For participants whose homes do not meet their accessibility needs, home modifications can be life-changing. OTs assess the physical environment and recommend changes that make everyday tasks safer and more achievable.
Examples include:
- Accessible bathrooms or step-free showers
- Widened doorways for wheelchair access
- Ramps and handrails
- Kitchen modifications for safe meal preparation
OTs collaborate closely with builders and accredited home modification assessors to ensure all recommendations are practical, compliant with Australian Standards (e.g., AS1428.1), and tailored to the participant’s unique needs.
Well-prepared OT reports provide the NDIS with the clinical evidence required to approve funding for these modifications.
With previous experience as a carpenter our knowledge in this field is something we pride ourselves on.
4. SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation) and SIL (Supported Independent Living)
For participants with higher or more complex support needs, OTs play an essential role in SDA and SIL assessments.
- SDA (Specialist Disability Accommodation):
OTs assess functional capacity, housing needs, and environmental barriers to determine the most appropriate housing design category — such as Improved Liveability, Fully Accessible, High Physical Support, or Robust. The OT provides evidence demonstrating why standard housing options are unsuitable and how SDA will enable greater independence and safety. - SIL (Supported Independent Living):
OTs assess the participant’s ability to manage daily living tasks and identify the level of support required to live as independently as possible. This may include assistance with personal care, cooking, cleaning, or community access.
These assessments form the evidence base that supports NDIS applications for higher levels of funded support and housing solutions.
5. Why OT Involvement Matters
Occupational Therapists bridge the gap between what a participant can do and what they want to achieve. Their holistic approach ensures that NDIS funding is directed towards interventions that truly enhance participation, independence, and wellbeing.
Whether it’s through a simple equipment recommendation or complex housing and support applications, OT involvement ensures every recommendation is goal-driven, evidence-based, and person-centred to achieve the best outcome for the participant to achieve their desired goals and live a life they find fulfilling.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the NDIS can be complex, but with the support of a qualified Occupational Therapist, participants can feel confident that their needs are clearly understood and supported with strong clinical evidence.
From functional capacity assessments to assistive technology, home modifications, and SDA or SIL applications, OTs are there every step of the way — empowering participants to live more independently and meaningfully in their chosen environments.
Why not get in touch with us to receive further information on how our services can assist you to strive towards your goals.