The Victorian government is implementing significant reforms to empower trained General Practitioners (GPs) to diagnose and treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in individuals aged six and older. This initiative is backed by a $750,000 investment for GP training and aims to drastically reduce current diagnostic wait times, which can stretch from six to twelve months, and costs, often exceeding $2,000. The reforms also seek to alleviate considerable pressure on specialist services.
The Victorian government's initiative aims to drastically reduce current diagnostic wait times and costs, and alleviate considerable pressure on specialist services.
Victorian Reforms to Expand ADHD Care
The core of these reforms involves a comprehensive training program for 150 GPs. This accredited training is slated to commence with accreditation from September and is expected to be completed by the end of the year. Upon successful completion, these GPs will be authorized to safely diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for ADHD in individuals aged six and older.
Beyond pharmacological interventions, the participating GPs will also consider non-medication care options. These include vital lifestyle strategies and facilitating appropriate referrals for behavioral therapy, psychology services, and educational support, all designed to assist in managing ADHD symptoms effectively.
Proposed legislative changes are anticipated to be introduced to parliament this year to underpin these reforms. Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas confirmed that the selection of the initial 150 GPs will prioritize geographic distribution, with a specific focus on serving rural, remote, and outer-suburban areas. Mental Health Minister Ingrid Stitt underscored that these changes are intended to provide more opportunities for Victorians, addressing the profound effects of undiagnosed or untreated ADHD. Premier Jacinta Allan further emphasized the overarching goal of making ADHD care more accessible and affordable for families across the state.
The Previous Diagnostic Landscape in Victoria
Prior to these groundbreaking reforms, the diagnosis and management of ADHD in Victoria predominantly necessitated specialist intervention. Adults typically required a psychiatrist for diagnosis and the initial prescription of stimulant medication. For children, a paediatrician or psychiatrist was generally mandated for a diagnosis. Comprehensive ADHD assessments in the state previously carried substantial costs, up to $2,000, and were notorious for involving extensive wait times ranging from six to twelve months.
A National Trend: Other States Lead the Way
Victoria's progressive reforms align with similar initiatives already implemented or underway in other Australian jurisdictions. These include Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia, Western Australia, and the Australian Capital Territory.
Notably, Queensland has also introduced changes to expand the scope for GPs regarding adult ADHD patients. One report indicates that Queensland became the first state to permit fully qualified GPs to diagnose and prescribe for adult ADHD without additional upskilling in December. Furthermore, it already permits them to diagnose and treat children. Another source, however, states that Queensland expanded the scope for all GPs to treat adult ADHD patients starting December 1, 2025.
Rising Demand and Prevalence of ADHD Services
Nationally, over 800,000 Australians have been formally diagnosed with ADHD. Estimates from the ADHD Foundation Australia suggest the actual number could be as high as 1 million. Across Australia, ADHD is estimated to affect 6-10% of children and adolescents, and 2-6% of adults.
In Victoria specifically, the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) estimates that approximately 163,000 children and 320,000 adults may be living with ADHD. Data from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (2024) highlighted a significant 450% increase in adult ADHD medication use in Australia between 2012-13 and 2022-23. The RACGP has also observed that prescription rates are more than double in Australia's most advantaged areas compared to the most disadvantaged, strongly advocating for nationally consistent rules across all states and territories.
Stakeholder Perspectives on the Reforms
Support from RACGP
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has been a vocal advocate for these diagnostic changes. They assert that ADHD care falls squarely within the scope of general practice and have consistently cited the current process's complexity and high cost as major barriers to access. Dr. Anita Muñoz, Victorian Chair of the RACGP, emphasized that GPs are the most accessed and accessible part of the medical system. She highlighted the potential benefits of early intervention for children with ADHD and the profound positive impact of diagnosis and treatment for adult patients. Dr. Muñoz also noted the comprehensive care GPs can provide, including advice on sleep hygiene, screen time management, and counseling.
Concerns from RANZCP and Others
Conversely, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) has expressed significant concerns regarding the potential for misdiagnosis under the new framework. The RANZCP underscored the critical need for specialist training and oversight for GPs, suggesting a shared care model where specialists continue to provide the initial diagnosis.
Some clinicians, including Professor Jon Jureidini of the Critical Psychiatry Network Australasia, have also publicly questioned the fundamental concept of ADHD as an independent neurodevelopmental disorder solely treatable by specific medications. They have further raised concerns regarding potential overdiagnosis and overmedication within the broader context of these reforms.
What's Next?
A targeted consultation process with key stakeholders is scheduled to commence prior to the full implementation of the proposed changes. Mental Health Minister Ingrid Stitt has indicated that the program may see future expansion following further consultation with the broader healthcare sector.