From March, general practitioners across New South Wales will be able to begin training to diagnose and treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as part of the NSW Government’s next phase of reforms aimed at making care easier, faster and more affordable.
Nearly 600 GPs have already expressed interest in undertaking the training, with NSW Health planning to prioritise doctors working in regional, rural and remote communities where access to specialist services is often limited.
The move builds on the first stage of the reforms, which has already seen more than 800 GPs trained to provide repeat prescriptions for ADHD medication. Since September 2025, more than 5,000 patients have benefitted from this change, with over 18,000 scripts filled through general practice.
For many families, the shift has reduced the need for frequent visits to psychiatrists or paediatricians, easing pressure on a specialist system that has long been criticised for high fees, long waiting lists and uneven access.
Health Minister Ryan Park said the strong response from doctors highlights both demand and capacity for change.
“With nearly 600 GPs already expressing their interest to receive training to diagnose ADHD, and over 800 already trained to prescribe ongoing medication, these reforms are expanding capacity to support the greater health system,” he said.
He also pointed to the challenges faced by families outside major cities, where specialist services can be difficult to reach.
“As part of this next step, we’re prioritising training of GPs in the bush so families can get the care they need closer to home,” Mr Park said.
The reforms are designed to address delays that can affect children’s development, school progress, future employment opportunities and mental health. Until now, most people seeking ADHD support have had to rely on an overloaded specialist pathway, often paying high out-of-pocket costs while waiting months for an appointment.
Mental Health Minister Rose Jackson said feedback so far has been overwhelmingly positive.
“Some have gone as far as saying it’s been life-changing for managing their treatment,” she said.
Ms Jackson said the second stage of the reforms is focused on building a system where diagnosis and treatment are based on need rather than income, while also reducing the stress many experience during the long wait for assessment.
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners has welcomed the changes, noting that ADHD is a common condition that can be managed effectively in general practice with appropriate training.
RACGP NSW and ACT Chair Dr Rebekah Hoffman said evidence suggests up to 10 per cent of children and 6 per cent of adults live with ADHD.
“GPs are specialists in whole-of-person care, and are well-placed to help patients with ADHD to thrive at school, in university, at work, and at home,” she said.
Patients have also spoken about the importance of ongoing support beyond medication alone. Lucia Porteus, a 21-year-old psychology graduate living with ADHD, said consistent care helped her complete her degree and plan further study.
“I know I have been lucky,” she said, adding that many peers have struggled to access medication or diagnosis due to costs and long waiting lists.
Applications for GPs wishing to enrol in the diagnostic training remain open, although places are limited. NSW Health will cover training costs, with remuneration available for those who complete the program. Doctors can also apply to become continuation prescribers, and specialist referrals will still be made when required.
More information is available through NSW Health’s ADHD care in general practice program, with enquiries directed to MOH-ADHDreforms@health.nsw.gov.au.
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