NSW Sees Strong Uptake of New ADHD Prescribing Reforms

NSW Sees Strong Uptake of New ADHD Prescribing Reforms

25 Nov 2025

These GPs are authorised to provide ongoing prescriptions for patients over six years of age who already have a confirmed ADHD diagnosis.

Since the changes were introduced on 1 September, community pharmacies have dispensed 6373 psychostimulant prescriptions to 2953 patients, reflecting both high demand and faster access to care.

RACGP NSW&ACT Chair Dr Rebekah Hoffman said the response demonstrates strong interest from clinicians as well as patients.

“GPs clearly want to be part of this model of care, they are capable, and the community is benefiting from easier access,” she told newsGP.

More than 200 of the trained GPs are practising outside metropolitan Sydney. Dr Hoffman said the free, online RACGP training has been well received, describing it as practical and confidence-building, and encouraging more GPs to enrol.

According to Dr Hoffman, the reforms reduce administrative complexity and make ongoing ADHD management more straightforward and accessible for families.

Sydney GP Dr Will Errington, Deputy Chair of RACGP Specific Interests ADHD, ASD and Neurodiversity, said the shift is also improving collaboration between general practitioners and specialists, particularly for patients with additional needs such as autism.

“Timely intervention is crucial, and GPs with the right skills can provide consistent, whole-person care over the long term,” he said.

NSW Mental Health Minister Rose Jackson said the early results indicate the system is working as planned.

“Our aim is to make ADHD care accessible based on need rather than financial capacity. Thousands of people are already experiencing quicker, more affordable access through their GP, and specialist appointments are opening up for those with more complex requirements.”

The next phase of the reform will allow GPs to diagnose ADHD and commence medication treatment. Training details for this expanded scope are expected later this year. Dr Hoffman said she supports the progression and hopes strong mentorship from specialists will be available as GPs take on these responsibilities.

Nationally, ADHD care continues to evolve. Earlier this month, Queensland became the first jurisdiction to allow all GPs to diagnose and treat adult ADHD without additional training.

A newsGP poll recently showed mixed views among GPs about whether other states should adopt the same approach, with 43% supportive and 46% opposed.

The RACGP has long advocated for consistent national policy, including allowing trained GPs to initiate, manage and continue psychostimulant therapy for both adults and children.

NSW GPs seeking further details can contact MOH-ADHDreforms@health.nsw.gov.au.

Source: newsGP / NSW Government

 
 

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