Almost 300 GPs across NSW have completed training that lets them diagnose and treat ADHD, with another 300 expected to start next month.
The training is part of NSW Government reforms to make essential healthcare more accessible, potentially saving families thousands of dollars. GPs who complete the NSW endorsed prescriber training program can assess and diagnose ADHD, and start prescribing medication.
“We are doing everything we can to make ADHD treatment and diagnosis cheaper, with more than 300 GPs across the state about to be able to assess, diagnose and medically treat the condition,” said Minister for Health Ryan Park.
“This is a significant milestone which is adding capacity our system and making it easier for people, many of them young families, to access the care they need, no matter where they live.”
GPs will continue to make specialist referrals, and escalate care, as required. They will be supported by a network of specialist psychiatrists and paediatricians through the Virtual Psychiatry Hub and Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network.
The second stage follows a first stage that has seen nearly 1,700 GPs sign up as continuation prescribers. More than 25,000 people have accessed ADHD medications more easily, filling more than 130,000 scripts.
Previously, people seeking ADHD care had to navigate a costly and overloaded specialist system, with long wait times and high fees. That could delay treatment, particularly for children, and affect development and academic progress.
The reforms are backed by an $11.7 million package in the 2026-27 NSW Budget:
$2.7 million will support GPs to complete endorsed prescriber training. $1.5 million will support up to 2,500 free GP ADHD assessments, potentially saving patients up to $1,500 a year in out-of-pocket costs. $5.7 million will fund specialist paediatric and psychiatry services to provide clinical support for GPs. A further $1.8 million will encourage ongoing uptake and give GPs access to allied health assessments and support.
Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said access should not depend on income or postcode.
“Getting an ADHD diagnosis shouldn’t depend on how much money your family has or where you live,” said Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson.
“Families have been calling for action in this space for years and it’s great to deliver better access to ADHD diagnosis services across the state.”
Royal Australian College of GPs NSW and ACT Chair Dr Rebekah Hoffman welcomed the milestone.
“ADHD is a common condition that benefits from the kinds of holistic care and lifestyle interventions GPs specialise in, alongside medication where appropriate,” said Royal Australian College of GPs NSW and ACT Chair Dr Rebekah Hoffman.
“This is often life-changing care GPs are perfectly placed to provide for our patients.”
Patients are encouraged to discuss a potential diagnosis with their GP. From next month, the locations of GP endorsed prescribers will be available on the Healthdirect website.
“We know accessing ADHD diagnosis services in rural and regional communities is a challenge so we’ve prioritised the first 300 GPs to complete endorsed prescriber training in these locations,” Mr Park said.
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