What is an occupational therapy assessment?

An occupational therapy assessment is a structured evaluation completed by a qualified OT to understand how a person manages daily tasks and activities. Depending on the purpose, it may examine driving ability, physical and cognitive function, home safety, or the need for specific equipment. The outcome is typically a written report used to inform care planning, funding decisions or licensing requirements.

What types of OT assessments does Drive & Thrive OT offer?

Drive & Thrive OT offers five core assessment services: OT driving assessments, functional capacity assessments, home modification assessments, vehicle modification assessments, and equipment prescription assessments. Each service is delivered by a qualified occupational therapist and supported by a professional written report. Visit each service page for a full breakdown of what is included.

Do I need a referral to book an assessment?

You do not always need a formal referral to book. You can contact us directly and our team will confirm whether a referral from a GP, specialist or support coordinator is required based on your specific situation or funding type. Many clients self-refer, while others are referred by a healthcare team, NDIS planner or family member.

Does Drive & Thrive OT work with NDIS participants?

Yes. We support NDIS participants across all plan management types. Our assessments are commonly requested to support plan reviews, equipment funding applications, home modification approvals and driving goals. Our reports are written to align with current NDIA guidelines and terminology.

What is the difference between an FCA and an OT driving assessment?

A functional capacity assessment (FCA) focuses on how a person manages everyday activities such as self-care, mobility and household tasks, and is commonly used for NDIS and insurance purposes. An OT driving assessment is a specialised review of driving ability, completed on and off road, and used to inform fitness to drive decisions and licensing outcomes. Both are completed by qualified occupational therapists but serve different purposes.

How long do occupational therapy assessments take?

Assessment length varies by type. Driving assessments typically run two to three hours and include an off-road clinical component and an on-road practical drive. Functional capacity assessments may involve two to four hours across one or more sessions. Home modification and equipment assessments generally require a one to two hour in-home visit. We provide a clear outline of timing when you book.

Can Drive & Thrive OT complete assessments at my home?

Yes. Drive & Thrive OT is a mobile service and assessments are completed in your home, local community or another suitable environment wherever possible. Completing assessments in familiar spaces allows our occupational therapists to observe real-world function and make more relevant recommendations. For certain components such as clinical interviews, telehealth may also be appropriate.

Which funding sources does Drive & Thrive OT accept?

We work with a range of funding sources, including the NDIS, My Aged Care, Home Care Packages, icare, workers compensation, DVA and private or family-funded arrangements. We will confirm fees, funding compatibility and billing processes before your assessment is scheduled so there are no surprises.

How do I get a quote before booking?

Contact our team by phone or through the online enquiry form. Once we understand your situation, the type of assessment needed and your funding source, we will provide a clear quote before anything is confirmed. We aim to make costs transparent from the outset so you can plan with confidence.

How do I book an occupational therapy assessment with Drive & Thrive OT?

The easiest way to book is to submit an enquiry through our online form or call us directly. Our team will ask a few brief questions about your situation, confirm the right assessment type and arrange a time that suits you. If you have an existing referral from a GP, specialist or support coordinator, have it ready when you get in touch.

Supporting access, independence, and mobility behind the wheel.

Vehicle Modification Assessments Across Greater Western Sydney

Your specialist said you can still drive. The licence is valid. But the standard controls no longer quite work for you. Drive & Thrive OT provides occupational therapy vehicle modification assessments across Greater Western Sydney, helping drivers and passengers find safe, practical solutions.

THE DRIVE & THRIVE DIFFERENCE

OT-Led Vehicle Modification Assessments You Can Trust

Drive & Thrive OT delivers vehicle modification assessments across Greater Western Sydney, completed by qualified occupational therapists with experience in adaptive driving and vehicle access. Whether you are a driver managing a change in physical function or a passenger who needs support accessing a vehicle, we assess your needs clearly and make practical, evidence-based recommendations.

Our reports are written to support funding applications with the NDIS, icare, DVA and other providers. Enquire today to discuss your situation.

HOW WE HELP

Practical Vehicle Modification Assessments for Drivers and Passengers

Driver modification assessment

We assess whether vehicle control modifications may support safe, independent driving for people with upper or lower limb conditions.

Passenger access assessment

We assess how a person can safely access and travel in a vehicle, including the suitability of hoists, ramps and restraint systems.

Adaptive equipment trials

Where available, we can arrange trials of adaptive driving or vehicle access equipment so recommendations are based on observed performance.

Clear OT reporting

Our reports are written to support NDIS, icare, DVA and private funding applications, with prescribed modifications and clear clinical justifications.

ABOUT THIS SERVICE

What Is a Vehicle Modification Assessment?

A vehicle modification assessment is an occupational therapy evaluation that examines how a person’s physical capacity affects their ability to drive or travel as a passenger in a vehicle.

Your occupational therapist reviews upper and lower limb strength and range of motion, grip and coordination, transfer ability, seating and postural support needs, and the relationship between these factors and safe vehicle access or control.

The outcome is a written OT report recommending the modifications or adaptive equipment that may best support safe, independent vehicle use. This report can be submitted to the NDIS, icare, DVA or other funding bodies alongside your application.

IS THIS RIGHT FOR YOU?

When to Consider a Vehicle Modification Assessment

A vehicle modification assessment may be relevant if:

You have experienced a change in physical function affecting your ability to use standard vehicle controls
You are returning to driving after a stroke, spinal cord injury, amputation or significant medical event
You have an upper or lower limb condition that makes standard driving controls difficult or unsafe
You or a family member uses a wheelchair or mobility scooter and needs safe, accessible vehicle transport

If you are unsure whether an assessment applies to you, give us a call. We will help you work it out.

MODIFICATIONS WE ASSESS

What Drive & Thrive OT Can Assess

Our vehicle modification assessments cover a wide range of adaptations for both drivers and passengers, including:

Hand controls, including push-pull, push-rock and push-twist configurations
Left foot accelerator pedals for drivers with right leg limitations
Spinner knobs and steering aids for reduced grip or upper limb function
Accelerator and brake guard modifications for safety
Vehicle entry and exit aids, including grab handles and swivel seats

Wheelchair hoists, platform lifts and ramp systems for passenger access
Tie-down and restraint systems for power wheelchairs and mobility scooters
Seating and postural support within the vehicle
Remote locking, adapted hand brakes and other secondary control modifications
Vehicle access solutions for carers and support workers transporting people with high support needs

NEXT STEPS

A Clear and Supportive Process

We aim to make every stage simple and supported, from first enquiry through to your final OT report.

OUR CLIENTS

Who Drive & Thrive OT Works With

Our vehicle modification assessments support a wide range of people, including:

HOW TO ACCESS OUR SERVICES

Funding and Referral Options

We work with a range of funding sources for vehicle modification assessments, including:

NDIS (self-managed, plan-managed and NDIA-managed participants)
icare and workers compensation
Private health insurance, where applicable
DVA and aged care providers
Privately funded and family-funded arrangements
My Aged Care and Home Care Packages, where applicable

Our team will confirm which funding pathway applies to your situation before any assessment is scheduled.

Service Area

Servicing Greater Western Sydney and Surrounding Areas

Drive & Thrive OT delivers vehicle modification assessments across:

Contact our team to confirm whether your location falls within our service area.

OUR APPROACH

Why Clients Choose Drive & Thrive OT for Vehicle Modification Assessments

Experienced OTs with knowledge of adaptive driving equipment and vehicle access solutions across NSW

Honest, practical recommendations matched to your physical capacity, vehicle type and goals

Trusted relationships with adaptive equipment suppliers and mobility specialists across Western Sydney

Clear, well-justified OT reports that support NDIS, icare and DVA funding decisions

A practical focus on keeping you mobile and independent, not just meeting a funding requirement

FAQ

Frequently asked Questions

OT Driving Assessments in NSW

What is an OT vehicle modification assessment?

A vehicle modification assessment is an occupational therapy evaluation that examines how a person’s physical capacity affects their ability to drive or travel in a vehicle. Your OT reviews strength, coordination, range of motion and transfer ability, then recommends the adaptive equipment or modifications that may support safer, more independent vehicle access. The assessment results in a written OT report used for funding applications and equipment decisions.

Who needs a vehicle modification assessment?

A vehicle modification assessment is commonly needed by people whose physical function affects their ability to use standard vehicle controls, or who need adaptive solutions for safe passenger travel. This includes people returning to driving after a stroke, spinal cord injury or amputation, NDIS participants requiring wheelchair or scooter access, and icare or DVA clients needing an OT report to support a modification claim.

What types of vehicle modifications can an OT assess?

Occupational therapists can assess a broad range of modifications for both drivers and passengers. For drivers, this may include hand controls, left foot accelerators, spinner knobs, steering aids and adapted brake or gear systems. For passengers, it may include wheelchair hoists, ramp systems, tie-down restraints and swivel seating. Your OT will recommend adaptations matched to your physical capacity, vehicle type and daily needs.

Will the NDIS fund vehicle modifications?

The NDIS may fund vehicle modifications where they are deemed reasonable and necessary and directly related to a participant’s disability. An OT report is usually required for mid-cost or high-cost modifications. Drive & Thrive OT writes reports aligned to NDIS guidelines to support your application. The NDIA makes all funding decisions, and we recommend discussing your specific situation with your support coordinator before applying.

Can I trial adaptive equipment before the OT makes a recommendation?

Yes, where possible. If equipment trials are available through trusted suppliers, Drive & Thrive OT can arrange for you to trial adaptive controls or access aids as part of the assessment process. This allows recommendations to be based on observed performance rather than assumptions. Not all equipment is available for trial, but your OT will discuss the options with you.

How long does a vehicle modification assessment take?

Most vehicle modification assessments involve a one to two hour in-person session. This includes a review of your medical history and physical function, an evaluation of your current vehicle and any existing adaptations, and a discussion of recommended modifications. If equipment trials are arranged, additional time may be needed. We will outline timing clearly when you book.

Do I need a referral to book a vehicle modification assessment?

You do not always need a formal referral. You can contact Drive & Thrive OT directly and our team will confirm whether a referral is required based on your funding type or situation. Many clients self-refer, while others are referred by a GP, specialist, icare case manager, support coordinator or allied health professional. If you have an existing referral, have it ready when you call.

How do I book a vehicle modification assessment with Drive & Thrive OT?

Booking is straightforward. Call Drive & Thrive OT or complete the online enquiry form with a brief description of your situation. Our team will confirm the right assessment type, explain the fees and timing, and schedule your appointment at a suitable location. We aim to make the process clear from the very first contact.

Book Your Vehicle Modification Assessment Today!

Whether you need adaptive controls to keep driving or vehicle access solutions for safe passenger travel, our team will walk you through the right assessment and funding pathway before anything is confirmed.

Call Drive & Thrive OT or enquire online to book your vehicle modification assessment in Greater Western Sydney.