Up to 2,500 people in New South Wales will be able to access free ADHD assessments through their GP under a $1.5 million state government investment aimed at improving affordability and access to diagnosis.
The initiative, announced as part of the NSW Government’s 2026–27 Budget, is designed to reduce out-of-pocket costs that can range between $500 and $1,500 for families and individuals seeking attention deficit hyperactivity disorder assessments. The broader package totals $11.7 million and includes funding to expand GP training, specialist support and allied health involvement.
Under the plan, GPs who are endorsed prescribers will be able to provide free assessments and follow-up consultations for patients aged six and over. Participating doctors will receive up to $600 per patient to support administrative tasks, assessment tools and input from allied health professionals where required.
The government says the program builds on earlier reforms that allow trained GPs to diagnose, treat and prescribe medication for ADHD, with more than 1,400 GPs already registered as continuing prescribers. Officials also report that more than 15,000 people have accessed ADHD medication more easily, with over 70,000 prescriptions filled since the changes were introduced.
Premier Chris Minns said the changes are intended to ease pressure on families facing both financial and healthcare challenges.
“These are simple changes to the way healthcare is delivered that will make it easier and more affordable for families to access the care they need,” he said.
Minister for Health Ryan Park said the funding aims to reduce wait times and costs that often delay diagnosis. “We are hearing time and time again about the stress and anxiety many people and their families feel whilst waiting for an ADHD diagnosis,” he said.
Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said the reforms focus on access based on need rather than income. “We’re investing $11.7 million to help more people get earlier diagnosis, better support and the chance to thrive at school, at work and in life,” she said.
Royal Australian College of General Practitioners NSW and ACT Chair Dr Rebekah Hoffman welcomed the initiative, saying it would improve access in high-need communities and reduce the financial gap often associated with longer consultations.
Free ADHD assessments in selected GP clinics are expected to become available from early 2027.
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