When is a Functional Capacity Evaluation needed in NSW?

A functional capacity evaluation in NSW is usually recommended when there is uncertainty about a worker’s ability to safely return to work. It may be required if a treating doctor, insurer, or employer needs objective evidence for return-to-work functional capacity evaluation, suitable duties assessment functional capacity, or recovery planning.

How long does a Functional Capacity Evaluation take?

Most FCE assessments take between 1.5 and 3 hours, depending on whether the assessment is physical or psychological, and how physically demanding the worker’s job is.

What does a Functional Capacity Evaluation include?

A functional capacity assessment test typically includes: A review of medical history and current symptoms. A job task analysis and functional capacity evaluation discussion. Functional testing for return-to-work (lifting, carrying, squatting, pushing, pulling, etc.). Work-based or clinic-based task simulations. A detailed functional capacity evaluation report with clear recommendations.

What is the difference between physical and psychological Functional Capacity Evaluations?

A physical functional capacity evaluation measures physical ability to perform job-related tasks such as lifting, carrying, and postural activities. A psychological functional capacity evaluation assesses cognitive and psychological capacity, including concentration, resilience, and stress tolerance. Here at AusRehab, both assessments cost $1,760 each and provide evidence for safe recovery and return-to-work planning.

How does a Functional Capacity Evaluation support return-to-work planning?

An FCE assessment provides objective data that helps doctors, employers, and insurers design tailored recovery plans. The functional capacity evaluation report identifies safe duties, work hours, and progression steps, serving as a residual work capacity evaluation to guide realistic recover-at-work planning.

Is a Functional Capacity Evaluation covered by workers’ compensation in NSW?

Yes. In many cases, an occupational functional capacity evaluation is approved and funded under workers’ compensation in NSW, provided it is recommended by the treating doctor or insurer and aligns with SIRA functional capacity evaluation requirements.

Can a Functional Capacity Evaluation be conducted at the workplace or only in a clinic?

An independent functional capacity evaluation can be performed either as a clinic-based functional capacity evaluation (using simulated tasks) or as a work-based functional capacity evaluation (using actual workplace equipment and environments). The choice depends on availability, context, and the worker’s role.

What happens after a Functional Capacity Evaluation report is completed?

After the functional capacity evaluation report is finalised, it is shared with the treating doctor, employer, insurer, and the worker. It provides clear recommendations on work capacity, suitable duties, and progression, ensuring all parties have aligned expectations for recovery.

What is the difference between a Certificate of Fitness and a Functional Capacity Evaluation?

A certificate of fitness vs functional assessment differ in purpose: A certificate of fitness formal medical certificate issued by a licensed medical practitioner stating whether an individual is fit, unfit, or fit with restrictions to perform specific job tasks. A functional capacity evaluation is a structured, objective assessment designed to measure an individual’s physical and functional capabilities in relation to job requirements.

What is a Residual Work Capacity Evaluation?

A residual work capacity evaluation identifies the level of safe work a person can still perform despite injury or illness. It helps determine whether they can return to pre-injury duties or need modified tasks and hours.

Is a Functional Capacity Evaluation the same as a Work Capacity Assessment?

Yes. In most contexts, a functional capacity evaluation and a work capacity assessment refer to the same process. Both terms describe structured testing that measures a worker’s ability to safely perform work-related tasks.

Career Placement Support in NSW

Looking for a career transition after a workplace injury? Our Career Placement Support can help. AusRehab provides job placement services across NSW to injured workers who can’t return to their pre-injury role. Our vocational placement service includes vocational planning, targeted job search, resume and interview coaching, ongoing post-placement support, and more.

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Success Stories from Real Clients

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Saeed Lashgari 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I don’t usually write reviews, but I really felt I had to say something about how much AusRehab helped me. After my accident and working with another rehab company, I was feeling lost and didn’t know what was going to happen with my life. I was in pain all the time and getting the runaround from people who were supposed to help.

Then I got connected with Matt from AusRehab and everything changed.

Matt is kind but brutally honest, which I really appreciate. He has a way of explaining things that actually makes sense. He listened to me and didn’t treat me like just another number. He helped me through every step — with the doctors, the paperwork, my appointments, even just being someone I could talk to when things got too much. He made me feel like I wasn’t alone in this.

I wish I had been working with Matt from the start — things would’ve been so different.

I was in a really dark place, but Matt made me feel like I had someone in my corner. I don’t have all the fancy words, but all I can say is he really cared. I felt like I mattered. Thank you, Matt, and thank you, AusRehab, for helping me when I needed it most.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Fun Eblis 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am very grateful for the support I received from Matt at Revamp Psychology. I felt listened to, understood and treated with genuine respect. Matt understood not only the psychological impact of my injury, but also the additional stress and uncertainty that comes with the recovery and claim process. The sessions were practical, supportive and tailored to what I was experiencing. I developed a better understanding of my symptoms and felt more confident managing them in my daily life. Having appointments by telehealth also made accessing treatment much easier. I would highly recommend Matt to anyone needing psychological support following a workplace injury.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Anza Ahmad 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My experience with one of the rehabs Young Cho has been very helpful and very professional. Recommended 💯!
  
 
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   SUPADRAY (Andre Lim) 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Thank you Paulo from AusRehab!
I really appreciate the professional and caring support you provided. You took the time to listen, explained everything clearly, and helped me make great progress with my recovery. Your expertise and friendly approach made the whole experience much more positive.
Highly recommend Paulo and the team at AusRehab to anyone looking for quality rehabilitation services.
Thank you again!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Steven Tong 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had an excellent experience with Aus Rehab Rehabilitation Centre, and I would especially like to thank Hans for his outstanding support throughout my recovery.

Hans was incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and caring. He provided helpful guidance on the medical aspects of my rehabilitation and worked closely with my doctors to develop a treatment plan that suited my condition perfectly. Thanks to his efforts and coordination, my pain was greatly reduced, and my recovery went very smoothly. He also managed all of the insurance-related matters on my behalf and kept me informed every step of the way.

I am truly grateful for everything Hans has done for me. I highly recommend Aus Rehab Rehabilitation Centre and Hans to anyone looking for professional, compassionate, and effective rehabilitation services.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Tony Warner 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Unable to get a full time Dr in the remote location we live, this consult was a breath of fresh air
I was Impressed with Doctors empathy care & responsiveness I have a complex condition that requires understanding research & strategy plan in which all boxes were ticked
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Jesse and Mya Talks 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It has been an amazing experience, working with Zuming who is compassionate, patient, supportive, transparent and knowledgeable when working with me and dealing with work related injuries… his support made it smooth and easy for me during difficult times. I feel confident and hopeful in my recovery journey and he was a big help and taking care of communication with the insurance company, doctors and work/manager on my return to work plan. I’m really impressed with Zuming and AusRehab! I really appreciate all the support and help provided by AusRehab! Highly recommended++++!!!!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Colin McArthur 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very professional.
Making the appointment was super easy.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Taha Alsadek 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I've been with Ausrehab for several months now, and I'm very satisfied with their rehabilitation providers. I'd like to mention this as a general positive comment. They've been instrumental in my recovery, not only for my mental well-being but also for my physical health, helping me stay motivated and focused throughout this challenging process. The support I received from numerous departments has been invaluable. Specifically, I want to commend John, Paulo, and Ronit for their exceptional contributions. I don't know how I could have done it if it weren't for their exceptional guidance and support. I am more than satisfied with the time they have chosen to give me. Have a good day, thank you all.

"With every hardship comes ease""

- T

Our Services

Our Career Placement Process

As a SIRA-accredited rehab provider, our vocational rehabilitation service aims to help you achieve sustainable and meaningful employment, and even reach new heights in your career. Our vocational job placement program follows a structured process, guiding you every step of the way in your return to work:

Eligibility Assessment

Upon getting in contact, we begin with an initial consultation to confirm your suitability for the program. A review of your health status, medical history, work capacity, location and return to work goals will be conducted. Your consultant also explains the program’s purpose, expectations, and next steps for you.

Initial Vocational Appointment

This step focuses on vocational counselling. We further discuss with you factors such as: your employment history, transferable skills that could be brought to the next job, your interests, and any barriers to return to work.

Vocational Report & Planning

Using the information discussed, we develop your personalised vocational profile, which summarises your employment history, skills, qualifications, and preferences. Your employment consultant also helps identify realistic and sustainable vocational placement options aligned with your work capacity and goals.

Return to Work Service Start

We start preparing for your job-seeking. We offer support with targeted job search, resume writing, interview coaching, and connecting with employers. Your employment consultant will guide you through each step, until you are confident and prepared.

Job Placement & Employer Engagement

In coordination with your treating practitioner, we directly assist you in connecting with new employers across Sydney to find job placements that suit your capacity and restrictions. Using SIRA’s job placement programs, we aim to help you secure meaningful and sustainable employment after injury.

Post-Placement Support

This is where AusRehab stands out. We want to ensure your satisfaction with job placement after injury, so we continue to monitor your progress post-placement. We are ready to step in and coordinate at any moment and tackle any challenges you encounter on your way to returning to work. Our ongoing workplace support continues for as long as the service remains funded.

Closure & Outcome Report

When the program concludes, it means you have achieved a stable and sustainable employment outcome. At the end of the program, we provide a detailed report summarising the outcomes achieved, the progress you made and any recommendations for the future.

Our Approach – Real Work, Real Outcomes

Choice-Led Pathways

Your goals, skills, qualifications, and interests are at the centre of our job search process. It’s your choice, plus our support.

Team-Based Support

We bring together workers, employers, doctors, and insurers across NSW to achieve unified, coordinated outcomes.

Fast, Focused Job Search

From profile building to interview coaching, we’re with you every step of the way of your career transition.

Support That Stays

Our consultants stay with you to offer guidance and coordination throughout your journey, even after placement.

Real Work, Real Outcomes

We connect you with genuine career placement programs and job opportunities, supporting your long-term employment goals.

Who We Help

We understand your desire to recover and return to the workplace. But sometimes, your previous employer may not be able to modify your duties or offer a suitable alternative role aligned with your injury and current capacity. That’s why we launched our Career Placement Support service.

Our vocational placement service is designed for injured workers who are ready to return to work but are unable to perform their pre-injury duties. We offer employment support if you:

Are recovering from a workplace injury, whether physical or psychological
Are ready or hoping to re-engage with the workforce, regardless of your capacity
Cannot return to your previous employer and need a new career pathway
Would like support with job search, applications, and interviews

If you are an employer or insurer, connect with us to access motivated, job-ready candidates and take advantage of SIRA NSW return-to-work incentives.

Why Choose AusRehab

Here’s why you should choose AusRehab as your workplace rehabilitation provider:

SIRA-accredited rehab provider, proudly helping over 6,000 injured workers return to work

Proven results in supporting individuals to regain employment through our Career Placement Support

Extensive network across NSW, trusted by employers, insurers, and health professionals

Human-centred approach, committed to ethical and evidence-based rehabilitation

What Makes Our Career Placement Support Different

AusRehab supports every injured worker achieving a sustainable return to work goal with real jobs and real outcomes. Throughout your journey, we care about how you progress and how you feel, and that’s what sets us apart from other workplace rehabilitation programs in NSW.

Our continued rehabilitation support ensures you’re well taken care of not only during your job search, but also after you’ve been placed, because we understand that the end of a program is just the start of your career journey. We remained involved after employment began, providing regular check-ins, problem-solving assistance, and coordinating workplace adjustments as required.

Our goal is to help you stay in work, feel supported, and build a stable, long-term return to work, one step at a time.

We're always ready to answer your questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Career Placement Support in workplace rehabilitation, and how does it help injured workers in NSW?

AusRehab’s Career Placement Support focuses on helping injured workers find the right job after injury. As part of our workplace rehabilitation program, this service connects injured workers with employers across NSW, offering full guidance and support throughout the job-seeking process.

For individuals who need a career transition after injury, the program provides a valuable opportunity to reintegrate into the workforce. From job search and resume writing to interview coaching, our consultants work closely with you to find sustainable employment tailored to your skills, capacity, and interests.

Who is eligible for AusRehab’s Career Placement Support after a workplace injury in Sydney / NSW?

You may be eligible for AusRehab’s Career Placement Support if:

You are recovering from a work-related injury, whether physical or psychological
You have an active workers compensation claim
Your previous employer is unable to offer a suitable role that matches your current work capacity
You would like support with job search, applications, and interview preparation

How does AusRehab’s Career Placement Support assist injured workers in finding new employment with a different employer?

AusRehab’s Career Placement Support is a one-stop solution for injured workers returning to work with a new employer. We begin by assessing your vocational interests, qualifications, and skills to develop a personalised profile. Based on your work capacity, we identify suitable duties and connect you with potential employers. From resume writing to interview coaching, we provide full support throughout the process. After placement, we continue to offer ongoing support to ensure your employment remains sustainable and successful.

What kind of post-placement support does AusRehab provide once I start my new job?

Once you begin your new role, AusRehab continues to monitor your progress and provide ongoing support. We coordinate with you, your employer, and your insurer to address any issues that may arise in the workplace. Our support remains active for as long as the service is funded.

What job-seeking and interview coaching assistance is included in the Career Placement Support program?

We’ll arrange an initial meeting to discuss your work history, qualifications, and current work capacity after injury as soon as you reach out to us. We’ll create a personalised vocational profile to help identify suitable roles. You’ll be connected with local employers across NSW, with one-on-one support in resume writing and interview coaching to assist your return to work.

How is Career Placement different from a typical workplace rehabilitation job-seeking service?

Unlike other vocational placement programs, our Career Placement Support offers constant check-ins and ongoing support, even after you’ve finished your placement. We want to make sure you progress steadily at each step of your return to work, so we’ll continue stepping in and coordinating support even after the program ends.

Can employers in NSW access SIRA incentives when hiring through the Career Placement Support?

Yes. Employers may be eligible for up to $27,400 in incentives when hiring an injured worker through SIRA’s return to work incentive programs. These include Work Trial, Connect2Work, JobCover6, the Job Cover Placement Program (JCPP), and others. Each program offers different incentive amounts but shares the same goal: to encourage employers to support the return to work of injured workers.

The quickest way to get started? Connect with an approved workplace rehabilitation provider.

What is the step-by-step Career Placement process, from eligibility assessment to job placement and return-to-work plan?

Our Career Placement Support follows seven clear steps, providing full support from your first appointment through to post-placement follow-up:

Eligibility Review: We assess your health, work capacity, location, and goals to confirm suitability for the program.
Vocational Counselling: We explore your work history, transferable skills, interests, and any barriers to returning to work.
Vocational Profile & Planning: We develop a personalised vocational profile that highlights your strengths, qualifications, and potential career pathways.
Job Preparation: We assist with resume writing, interview coaching, and begin engaging employers to identify suitable roles.
Job Placement: We help you find and secure employment with a new employer that matches your capacity and goals.
Post-Placement Support: We continue to support you after placement, helping you adjust, resolve issues, and coordinating with your insurer.

Closure & Outcome Report: Once you’ve achieved sustainable employment, we provide a summary report outlining your progress and future recommendations.

Does AusRehab offer Career Placement and post-placement support across Sydney and regional NSW?

Yes. AusRehab provides professional workplace rehabilitation and vocational placement services across the Sydney metropolitan area and regional NSW. If you’re returning to work and seeking a new employer, our career placement consultants can help you find sustainable employment no matter where you’re located.

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Take the Next Step

Feeling like returning to work is a challenge? Let us help you get back on your feet. AusRehab supports you in rebuilding your career after injury, with real training, real jobs, and genuine care.

If you’re looking for a trusted return to work service in NSW, contact us today for a sustainable and meaningful path forward.