ADHD Diagnosis by GPs in Australia: What It Means for Treatment 2026

Patients in Australia can now be diagnosed with ADHD by a GP, a significant shift that promises to improve access to care and reduce wait times for many. Historically, people seeking an ADHD diagnosis and prescription needed a referral from their GP to see a specialist, often a paediatrician for children or a psychiatrist for adults.

Patients and advocacy groups have long said this leads to high costs and long waits, especially for those in regional areas, and amid rising rates and awareness of ADHD. As a result, many jurisdictions have started to change the rules on diagnosing ADHD, allowing GPs a more central role in care.

What Is ADHD?

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition. In Australia, it affects 6 to 10% of children and young people, and 2 to 10% of adults.

People with ADHD can experience a range of symptoms, including difficulty focusing, concentrating, organising, and memory problems, as well as overactivity and hyperactivity. These symptoms can affect schooling, friendships, work, and family life.

While the condition typically appears in childhood, diagnosis can be delayed until adulthood. Women tend to be diagnosed later than men, partly due to under-recognised differences in symptoms.

Where Have Changes to Diagnosis and Treatment Been Made?

In December, Queensland became the first state to allow GPs to diagnose and prescribe for ADHD. Previously, GPs could already prescribe to children over the age of four, as long as a specialist had seen and diagnosed the child.

Now, Queensland GPs can diagnose and initiate treatment for both children and adults, provided they meet certain training and qualification requirements. Other states and territories are watching closely and may follow suit.

What Does This Mean for Patients?

The change means that patients can potentially receive a diagnosis and start treatment faster, without the need for a lengthy and costly specialist referral. This is particularly beneficial for people in rural and remote areas, where specialist services are scarce.

However, it also places greater responsibility on GPs to accurately diagnose and manage ADHD. Proper training and adherence to clinical guidelines will be crucial to ensure quality care.

• Faster access: Patients can get diagnosed and treated sooner, reducing wait times.
• Lower costs: Fewer specialist visits mean reduced out-of-pocket expenses.
• Regional benefit: People in rural areas gain better access to care.
• Training needs: GPs must be adequately trained to diagnose and manage ADHD.
• Ongoing monitoring: Regular follow-up is essential to adjust treatment as needed.

Comparing the Old and New Pathways

What to Watch Next

As more states consider similar changes, the focus will be on ensuring GPs have the necessary training and support. The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners has developed guidelines for ADHD diagnosis and management in primary care.

Patients should discuss any concerns with their GP and be aware that while access is improving, appropriate diagnosis and treatment still require careful evaluation. The long-term outcomes will depend on how well the new model is implemented and monitored. The background to this story is set out in Australia: latest articles.