Can a GP Diagnose ADHD in NSW Right Now? What's Actually Live in 2026
NSW ADHD reforms explained: what GPs can do right now vs later in 2026. FMP GPs in the Sutherland Shire break down the real pathway, no confusion.
As of mid-2026, GPs in NSW cannot yet formally diagnose ADHD or start new stimulant medication. What's live today is Stage 1: trained GPs can continue prescriptions for patients already diagnosed and stable on medication. Full GP-led diagnosis (Stage 2) is expected to open from September–October 2026.
What can a GP actually do for ADHD right now?
Under Stage 1, active since September 2025, an authorised GP can take over repeat prescriptions for patients who already have a diagnosis from a psychiatrist or paediatrician and are stable on their medication. More than 1,100 GPs across NSW are approved as continuation prescribers, and this pathway alone has already saved NSW families an estimated $10 million in out-of-pocket costs.
When will GPs be able to diagnose ADHD in NSW?
Stage 2 is the reform generating the most excitement, and the most confusion. A limited group of GPs, including FMP's Dr Christopher Timms and Dr Rebekah Hoffman, are currently completing the additional endorsed training required. This training is expected to finish between September and October 2026, after which trained GPs will be able to conduct full assessments, make a diagnosis, and initiate treatment. Until then, initial diagnosis still requires a psychiatrist or paediatrician.
Why does this reform matter?
Private psychiatrist assessments in Sydney have carried wait times of 12 to 18 months, often longer in regional areas, with initial consultations commonly costing several hundred dollars or more. Bringing trained GPs into the assessment pathway is designed to close that gap. From early 2027, NSW Health also plans to fund up to 2,500 free GP-led ADHD assessments in selected practices.
What should I do if I think I or my child has ADHD, right now?
Book a conversation with your GP. Even ahead of Stage 2, a GP can take a detailed history, use validated screening tools, and prepare a strong referral if specialist assessment is the next step. This groundwork isn't a delay, it genuinely speeds up the process once you do see a specialist. FMP's ADHD care service covers exactly this kind of early-stage support across Kirrawee, Woolooware and Kurnell.
Frequently asked questions
Can any FMP GP prescribe ADHD medication? Only GPs approved as continuation prescribers can issue repeat prescriptions, and only for patients already diagnosed and stable. Ask reception which FMP GPs currently hold this approval.
Is Stage 2 available at FMP yet? Not yet. FMP GPs are in the training pipeline, with completion expected in the second half of 2026. We'll update this page once that changes.
Will GP-led ADHD assessments be free? NSW Health has committed to funding 2,500 free assessments from early 2027 in selected practices. Outside that scheme, GP consultation costs are far lower than private psychiatrist fees.
Can a GP diagnose ADHD in adults, or only children? The reforms cover both, though most current attention has focused on adult diagnosis given the length of psychiatrist waitlists.
This article is for general information only and does not replace professional medical advice. Please speak with your GP before making any changes to your health care.
