The Guides to Social Policy Law is a collection of publications designed to assist decision makers administering social policy law. The information contained in this publication is intended only as a guide to relevant legislation/policy. The information is accurate as at the date listed at the bottom of the page, but may be subject to change. To discuss individual circumstances please contact Services Australia.

1.1.F.270 Functional capacity, functional impairment (DSP)

Definition: functional capacity

For the purposes of DSP, functional capacity is what the person can, or could do, not what the person chooses to do or what others do for the person.

The existence of a medical condition (1.1.M.90) does not necessarily restrict functional capacity.

Definition: functional impairment

For the purposes of DSP, a functional impairment is a loss of functional capacity affecting a person's ability to work that results from the person's medical condition.

Policy reference: SS Guide 1.1.I.10 Impairment Tables (DSP), 3.6.2 Assessment for DSP

Last reviewed: 15 August 2022

The Australian Government acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, water, culture and community. We pay our respects to the Elders both past and present.