NSW ADHD Reforms 2025–2026: More Accessible Care, Closer to Home

Accessing ADHD support in NSW has historically involved long waits for specialist appointments, a challenge that many families know all too well. That's changing. The NSW Government has introduced significant reforms that make it easier to access assessment, treatment, and ongoing care through your local GP.

Here's a clear summary of what's changed and what it could mean for you or your family.

The NSW ADHD Reforms: A Two-Stage Approach

NSW has rolled out a two-stage reform aimed at reducing waitlist pressures and broadening access to timely care.

Stage 1 launched on 1 September 2025. Under this change, trained GPs can now prescribe ongoing psychostimulant medication for patients aged 6 and over who already have a confirmed ADHD diagnosis and are stable on treatment. Previously, this required ongoing specialist involvement. In the months following launch, more than 5,000 patients benefitted from Stage 1, with over 18,000 scripts filled under the new arrangement.

Stage 2 launched in March 2026. Under Stage 2, specially trained GPs can now both assess for ADHD and initiate treatment for new patients. For eligible individuals, this means the full care pathway — from initial assessment through to ongoing management, can now be handled at a local family practice.

We're excited to share that Dr Chris Timms and Dr Rebekah Hoffman have been accepted into this training,  and we'll be letting our community know as soon as they're ready to start seeing patients for ADHD support.

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What This Means for Our Community

For families in Kirrawee, Woolooware, and Kurnell who have been on long waitlists for a psychiatrist or paediatrician, these reforms open up a more accessible pathway, without a compromise in the quality of care.

If you've been exploring an ADHD assessment for yourself or your child, are currently managing a diagnosis, or simply want to understand whether the GP-led pathway is right for your situation, your GP at Family Medical Practice is a great place to start the conversation.

Our GPs stay up to date with NSW Health guidelines and ADHD training requirements. We'll take the time to understand your individual circumstances and guide you toward the most appropriate pathway, whether that's GP-led care or a specialist referral.

Mental Health Care Plans

Separate to ADHD support, if you or a family member is experiencing mental health challenges, your GP can prepare a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP). Through the Better Access initiative, eligible patients can access up to 10 Medicare-rebated sessions per calendar year with a psychologist or other mental health professional — all with a GP referral.

We're Here to Help

Whether you're new to exploring an ADHD assessment, currently managing a diagnosis, or just trying to understand how the recent reforms might affect your family, we're happy to help. Book an appointment at Family Medical Practice in Kirrawee, Woolooware, or Kurnell — we'll listen carefully and work with you to find the right path forward.

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