New South Wales: ADHD Reform
At a Glance
Diagnosis by GP: Not yet. Stage 2 (independent GP diagnosis) is in training, expected late 2026.
GP prescribing: Continuation only - trained GPs can continue stimulants started by a psychiatrist. Live since September 2025.
Training: Two endorsed providers, AADPA and RACGP, 3–6 months.
Reform momentum: Strong. Two-stage model. 5,000+ patients accessing care under Stage 1; 18,000+ scripts filled.
Existing ADHD Pathways
For Patients
To see a specialist for a medical diagnosis, patients must book an appointment with their GP and obtain a letter to refer them to a psychiatrist or paediatrician (children). This can be taken to any specialist in the field.
The patient will then need to find the specialist and organise the referral appointment themselves. Average waiting lists range between 1-5 months.
Medicare covers a small portion of the cost typically (between $200-$440), but patients will typically have to pay out-of-pocket for a private assessment (usually around $1000 - $2000).
Free public assessments require a detailed GP referral submitted directly to a local public hospital or Community Mental Health service, which is then strictly vetted based on severity and urgency, with a 6-18 months waiting list.
Following diagnosis, a patient may take medication prescribed by the specialist in follow up appointments (costing approx $300-£500) until they are referred back to the GP. Privately, this may cost around $80-$140 per script.
NSW is currently training a pilot cohort of GPs to diagnose and treat ADHD. This involves:
AADPA (Australasian ADHD Professionals Association) - 6 interactive, case-based live sessions form the required educational component
RACGP (Royal Australian College of General Practitioners) - ACRRM members can access the RACGP course on a subsidised basis by contacting
This does not mean every GP can diagnose or prescribe ADHD medication. It means ADHD care is gradually expanding through trained and authorised GPs, with local rules and eligibility requirements still applying.
For GPs
The GP will perform a basic pre-screening and refer the patient to a private or public specialist for assessment.
If a patient is prescribed ADHD medication following an assessment, when this is stabilised (usually around 3 months), the specialist may refer them to a Continuation GP.
This means that any GP who has completed the relevant NSW Health training can continue prescribing medication under Medicare rules. Some clinics bulk-bill routine script appointments.
What’s Changing
The NSW reforms are staged. Some GPs may be able to provide continuation prescribing, and a smaller group may undertake further training to diagnose and initiate treatment.
GPs should check the current requirements before offering ADHD prescribing, assessment or initiation of stimulant medication. The reform pathway includes training, eligibility criteria and prescribing rules.
What should GPs know?
Useful Links
This page is general information only. ADHD prescribing and assessment rules can change, and eligibility depends on current NSW requirements, GP training status and individual clinical circumstances.