Families and individuals in South Australia and Tasmania will soon have a more affordable and simpler approach to receive an ADHD diagnosis and ongoing treatment.
General practitioners in South Australia with specialised training will soon be able to diagnose ADHD following a recent announcement from the South Australian Government. The rule change is expected to come into effect in 2026.
The rule change will also allow GPs to prescribe ADHD medication without having to provide evidence of a diagnosis from psychiatrist or paediatrician.
The Tasmanian Liberal Party have also committed to allow GPs to diagnose and treat ADHD ahead of the upcoming state election. The Labour Party supports the announcement.
ADHD Australia CEO, Melissa Webster, welcomes the announcements and encourages the remaining states and territories to follow suit.
“These changes will support so many families who have to wait months and spend thousands of dollars to receive a diagnosis”, said Ms Webster. “We call on all states and territories to make similar commitments to help support those with ADHD”.
These announcements reflect recent changes that have been made in New South Wales and Queensland. The Western Australian Labor Government also made an election commitment prior to their election victory.
In making these changes, ADHD Australia encourages states and territories to consider the safety measures that we recently highlighted. For more information on these measures, read We welcome NSW Government’s historic ADHD reform.
We also encourage states and territories to consider how these changes will affect individuals who are economically distressed, individuals who live in regional and remote communities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, and culturally and linguistically diverse people. Given this measure may not be taken up by bulk billing GPs, we need to ensure that access is available for those who need it most.
Contact: media@adhdaustralia.org.au