New Rules Enabling GPs To Diagnose ADHD Could Be “Life Changing”

From March, GPs across NSW will be able to diagnose attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) following the landmark government reforms making ADHD care easier, faster, and more affordable.

Almost 600 GPs have indicated their interest in undertaking training to be able to diagnose and treat ADHD, with those in regional, rural, and remote areas prioritised for training.

“We know the impact high quality ADHD care can have on family wellbeing, we are deeply committed to ensuring children in metro and regional NSW are not left behind,” said health minister Ryan Park.

More than 800 GPs have been trained to fill repeat ADHD medication scripts as part of the first phase of reforms, saving patients with an exisiting diagnosis and their families $500–1400 a year.

Since 1 September 2025, over 5000 patients have benefitted from the new arrangement, with increased access and over 18,000 scripts filled thanks to this important change.

GPs offer “whole-of-person care” approach

The move has been welcomed by the Royal Australian College of GPs, who said the reforms would be “life changing” for thousands of patients.

“The evidence indicates up to 10% of children, and 6% of adults, live with ADHD. This is a common condition that can be diagnosed and managed well by a specialist GP with appropriate training,” said RACGP NSW&ACT Chair Dr Rebekah Hoffman.

Sydney doctor Will Errington said GPs are better placed to provide whole-of-person care, taking into consideration a many different aspects of a patient’s health and life, including sleep, education, and how they interact with others.

“What helped me most to overcome the challenges of ADHD was not just medication, but also the continued access to treatment and support I received from my ADHD coach, my school, my paediatricians, my GPs and my family,” said 21-year-old ADHD patient and recently psychology graduate Lucia Porteus.

“I know I have been lucky. Many of my peers have struggled to access medication or a diagnosis for ADHD because of costs and long wait lists, but this new policy will remove such barriers for so many people.”