Independent OT Assessments for ART Matters Relating to NDIA Decisions

Sina OT provides independent Functional Capacity Assessments for ART matters and NDIA appeals across Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and nationally.
These assessments are completed in person within the individual’s usual living environment and focus on objective evaluation of functional capacity, daily support needs, safety and the impact of disability on everyday functioning as observed at the time of assessment. Assessments are undertaken for administrative review and decision-making purposes and do not involve treatment, advocacy or implementation. All assessments are conducted in an objective and independent manner.

Occupational Therapy assessments for ART matters are typically undertaken following completion of the NDIA internal review process and once a matter has progressed to external review by the ART. The assessment provides structured functional information to assist decision-makers in understanding functional impact and support requirements.
Clinical opinions are formed independently and are based on observed functional performance, clinical reasoning and relevant supporting information obtained at the time of assessment, without influence from the referring party.

Who refers to us for ART matters:
Referrals are accepted from:
Solicitors and legal representatives acting on behalf of NDIS participants
Participants and their families seeking independent evidence for review proceedings
Support coordinators and advocates preparing ART submissions
Assessments are available in person across Adelaide and broader South Australia, Melbourne Metropolitan, Sydney Metropolitan, and nationally on a case-by-case basis.

What the independent Functional Capacity Assessment report provides:
The independent Occupational Therapy Functional Capacity Assessment report for ART matters provides:
An objective and independent evaluation of functional capacity and daily support needs as observed at the time of assessment
Clear description of how disability affects the person’s ability to complete activities of daily living, manage personal care, access the community and maintain safe and independent living
Clinical reasoning and functional opinion grounded in direct observation, standardised assessment tools where applicable, and relevant supporting documentation
Structured reporting suitable for submission as evidence in ART review proceedings
Opinions formed independently and without influence from the instructing party
Reports are provided in a format suitable for ART proceedings. Turnaround and format requirements can be discussed at the time of referral.

Commonly Asked Questions

What is the purpose of an Occupational Therapy Functional Capacity Assessment for ART matters?

An Occupational Therapy Functional Capacity Assessment provides an independent and objective evaluation of a person’s functional capacity, daily support needs, safety considerations, and the impact of disability on everyday functioning. The assessment is completed to assist decision-makers in matters before the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) relating to decisions made by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).

When is an OT Functional Capacity Assessment undertaken for an ART matter?

These assessments are typically conducted after the NDIA internal review process has been completed and the matter has progressed to external review by the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART). The assessment provides structured functional information to support administrative review and decision-making.

Are these assessments independent, and do they involve treatment or advocacy?

Yes. All assessments are conducted independently and objectively. Clinical opinions are based on observed functional performance, clinical reasoning, and relevant supporting information available at the time of assessment. The assessment does not involve treatment, advocacy, or implementation of recommendations.

Is this service available nationally?

In-person assessments are available across Adelaide and broader South Australia, Melbourne Metropolitan and Sydney Metropolitan. Assessments in other locations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Contact Sina OT to discuss your specific location and requirements.

How do solicitors or legal representatives instruct Sina OT?

Legal representatives can contact Sina OT by phone on 0467 712 199 or by email at sina@sinaot.com.au. A referral form is also available for download from this website. Please provide the referral purpose, relevant background documentation, and any specific reporting requirements at the time of instruction.

What qualifications does the assessing Occupational Therapist hold?

Assessments are conducted by Sina Salehi, a registered Occupational Therapist with extensive experience in independent Functional Capacity Assessment across NDIS and ART contexts. Qualifications and accreditations are displayed on this website and can be provided on request.