ADHD Medication Rates Vary Across Australia, Raising Concerns

ADHD Medication Rates Vary Across Australia, Raising Concerns

21 Apr 2026

The data shows a sharp rise in prescriptions in some areas, especially in Western Australia. Fremantle had the highest rate, with about 4.4% of adults receiving ADHD medication as of June 2024. For women aged 44 and under, the rate was over 6%. These numbers may be higher than the commonly accepted ADHD rate of 2.5% to 3%.

At the same time, some parts of the country, including areas in south-west Sydney, had much lower prescription rates. This suggests that many people there may not be getting diagnosed when they should be.

Perth GP Dr Sean Stevens said the program gave a fair view and raised important points. He explained that where you live and how much you earn can affect your chances of getting an ADHD diagnosis, especially for adults.

Dr Stevens also noted that Western Australia has a long history of higher stimulant prescribing. He believes this is partly due to better awareness of ADHD and earlier work by specialists in the state.

The report also looked at new changes that allow GPs to play a bigger role in diagnosing ADHD and prescribing medication after proper training. However, some experts are worried about fairness.

Sydney GP Dr Tim Senior said the Medicare system supports short appointments more than longer ones, which are needed for proper ADHD assessments. This could make it harder for doctors in lower-income areas to offer these services, as patients may not be able to afford extra fees.

Dr Stevens agreed this is a real issue. He said diagnosing ADHD properly can take long appointments, which are not always well paid under the current system. This may discourage some GPs from offering the service.

The program also raised concerns about some telehealth clinics that focus mainly on ADHD. Dr Stevens said telehealth can be helpful, especially for people in remote areas, but warned that quick assessments based only on questionnaires are not enough. A full diagnosis should carefully assess all symptoms and how they affect daily life.

Guidelines for ADHD care, developed by the Australasian ADHD Professionals Association, were also discussed. While some recommendations are based on expert opinion, Dr Stevens said this is common in medicine when strong evidence is still developing.

He added that clearer and consistent rules across Australia are needed, along with better training and support for GPs. The Federal Government aims to have national prescribing rules in place by 30 June this year to improve access to ADHD care.

https://www1.racgp.org.au/

Source: ABC News (Four Corners report)

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