Victorians will soon be able to access diagnosis and treatment for ADHD through their local GP, under changes announced by Jacinta Allan that aim to cut wait times and reduce costs for families.
Under the reforms, to be introduced this year, trained GPs will be able to diagnose and treat ADHD in both children and adults. At present, adults must see a psychiatrist, while children require a paediatrician or psychiatrist, a pathway that often comes with long delays and high out-of-pocket expenses.
Many families have been facing waits of six to 12 months, with the average comprehensive assessment costing upwards of $2,000. The new approach is designed to remove those barriers and bring care closer to home.
“Labor is making health care work better for busy families by making ADHD care easier and cheaper to access,” the Premier said. “No child or family should be left behind because the system is too complex, too hard or too expensive.”
Families, she said, have raised concerns directly. “Families have told me how difficult it is to get this care – so we’re making it cheaper and easier.”
Under the changes, GPs will be able to undertake accredited training to expand their scope of practice, allowing them to safely diagnose, treat and prescribe medication for ADHD for adults and for children aged six years and over. The aim is to help people get support earlier, whether at school, in the workplace, or in daily life.
The reform is also expected to ease pressure on specialist services such as psychiatry and paediatrics, as demand for ADHD assessments continues to grow. The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners estimates that up to 163,000 Victorian children and 320,000 adults may be living with ADHD.
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said the changes were about fairness and access. “We’re changing the way Victorians can access an ADHD diagnosis and treatment, because income or location shouldn’t stop you from getting the care you need.”
A $750,000 investment will fund accredited training for an initial 150 GPs by September. In line with best practice treatment models, GPs will also consider non-medication options, including lifestyle strategies and referrals for behavioural therapy, psychology and education support. These pathways are intended to help manage symptoms such as attention, emotional regulation and concentration challenges.
Mental Health Minister Ingrid Stitt said the stakes were high for those who miss out on care. “Undiagnosed or untreated ADHD can have significant effect on a person’s life – whether it’s at school, work or in the home. That’s why these changes are so important, giving more Victorians a chance to thrive.”
A targeted consultation with stakeholders is expected to begin soon, following national advocacy from GPs, as the state moves to implement the new model and broaden access to care.
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