Canberra GPs Can Now Prescribe ADHD Medication – Streamlined Access for Patients

Expanded Access to ADHD Medication in the ACT

Canberra residents living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) will soon have improved access to medication and care, thanks to reforms implemented by the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) government. Changes taking effect February 11, 2026, streamline the prescribing process for ADHD medications, reducing administrative burdens for both patients and healthcare professionals.

Previously, general practitioners (GPs) required repeated reviews from specialists – psychiatrists, paediatricians, or neurologists – and Chief Health Officer approval for ongoing prescriptions of ADHD medication for eligible patients. These requirements are now lifted for patients who are stable on their medication, aged six years or older, and have an existing diagnosis from a relevant specialist. Similarly, specialists no longer require Chief Health Officer approval to prescribe within defined dosage ranges.

According to ACT Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith, the changes are designed to address barriers to treatment faced by individuals and families. “Families and individuals living with ADHD can sometimes face barriers to accessing treatment,” she stated. “The changes… around prescribing ADHD medications are the first stage of our approach to better supporting ADHD care in the ACT.”

Easing the Burden on the Healthcare System

The reforms aim to reduce delays in accessing medication, decrease the demand for specialist appointments, and alleviate administrative pressures on the healthcare system. This is particularly significant given the documented challenges in accessing timely diagnoses and treatment for ADHD in Canberra, with some families previously traveling interstate to secure care.

The Australian Medical Association (AMA) ACT president, Dr. Kerrie Aust, described the changes as a “sensible reform,” noting that it “reflects both clinical realities and the calls from patients and families for better access to timely assessment and treatment.” Dr. Aust emphasized that the reforms maintain appropriate safeguards while recognizing the central role of GPs in patient care. She added, “Importantly, the changes maintain appropriate safeguards and recognise the role of GPs as central providers of care.”

Future Expansion of GP Roles

These initial changes represent the first phase of a broader strategy to enhance ADHD care in the ACT. Later this year, further reforms will be implemented to allow GPs, following additional training, to diagnose ADHD and initiate medication for patients. This expansion of GP scope of practice is intended to further improve access to timely care and ease pressure on the health system, while ensuring safe and monitored prescribing practices.

The ACT government’s commitment to expanding the role of GPs in ADHD care fulfills an election promise, acknowledging the pressures and barriers experienced by those seeking diagnosis and treatment. The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) NSW&ACT chair, Dr Rebekah Hoffman, welcomed the changes, stating they would “make a tangible difference for patients and families who often face long waits for specialist appointments.”

Shared Care Arrangements Remain Available

For GPs who choose not to expand their scope of practice to include ADHD diagnosis and management, shared-care arrangements with paediatricians, psychiatrists, and neurologists will remain available. This ensures continuity of care for patients who prefer or require specialist involvement.

Prevalence of ADHD and the Importance of Timely Intervention

ADHD is estimated to affect currently 6 to 10 percent of Australian children and young people, and 2 to 10 percent of adults. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for mitigating the impact of ADHD on individuals’ academic, social, and emotional well-being. Dr. Hoffman noted that recognizing the potential of GPs to play a greater role in ADHD care was “overdue,” highlighting the success of similar models in Queensland over the past eight years.

“Allowing trained GPs to continue prescribing for stable patients within a clear clinical framework helps ensure people receive timely, consistent, and accessible care,” Dr. Hoffman explained. She further emphasized that GPs are well-equipped to manage chronic conditions like ADHD, given their role as providers of ongoing, holistic care.

Further information regarding ADHD care in the ACT is available from the ACT Government and HealthDirect.