May 26, 2025
The Australasian ADHD Professionals Association (AADPA) has welcomed today’s breakthrough new reforms, that will empower trained GPs in NSW to prescribe ongoing treatment for ADHD patients and enable some to diagnose and initiate treatment.
These changes represent a major step forward in addressing the challenges faced by individuals and families seeking ADHD support. The reforms will improve access to care, reduce waiting times, and bring down costs across NSW.
AADPA has long advocated for a national approach that recognises the important role GPs can play in the safe and effective management of ADHD, while ensuring that standards of assessment, diagnosis and care remain high.
While the reforms represent important progress, AADPA emphasises that education and accuracy in the diagnostic pathways must remain central to the rollout. We strongly believe that ongoing support for GPs from non-GP specialists, including paediatricians and psychiatrists, will also be crucial to providing optimal care and support for those with more complex presentations.
“The expansion of GP roles in ADHD care is a positive and necessary step — but it’s essential that we keep accurate diagnosis at the heart of this process. Getting it right matters for every child, every adult, and every family involved.” — Professor David Coghill, President of AADPA
AADPA looks forward to supporting NSW Health, and the RACGP (NSW) to deliver this initiative, ensuring care remains grounded in evidence, experience, and equity of access. Several AADPA representatives have already been involved in the co-development of e-learning materials for NSW Health to support GPs in primary care settings in NSW.
“We’re not just opening new doors to treatment — we’re helping to build a stronger, more informed health system where GPs are equipped with the right tools, and supported by clear guidelines, strong training, and access to specialist advice.” said Dr Sarahn Lovett, Paediatrician and Vice President
These reforms have the potential to transform care pathways for families across NSW, especially in rural and regional areas where access to paediatricians is limited.
But care must never become a box-ticking exercise. Accurate diagnosis and appropriate management are critical, particularly in children, where the impact of missing or misidentifying ADHD can be life-changing. AADPA supports this being implemented respectfully and collaboratively, with the right education and safeguards in place from day one.
