News
22 November, 2025
QLD adults will be able to get ADHD diagnosis from GP
QUEENSLAND will be Australia’s first state to enable GPs to initiate, adjust and continue prescriptions for ADHD medications for adults from December 1, 2025.
QUEENSLAND will be Australia’s first state to enable GPs to initiate, adjust and continue prescriptions for ADHD medications for adults from December 1, 2025.
The changes to the Medicines and Poisons (Medicines) Regulation 2021 will make ADHD care and treatment more connected, timely and person-centred.
Like in other states, adults with ADHD have had to wait for costly specialist appointments for formal diagnosis and treatment, with limited access to life-changing medication and left in limbo on long waitlists - a problem amplified in rural and regional Queensland where specialist roles were left vacant and on life support.
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the changes were championed by GPs who acknowledged it would provide faster safe and appropriate ADHD treatment for adults across the state.
“The State Government is delivering an Australian first alongside GPs, psychiatrists and the wider health community to ensure every Queenslander can live a full, healthy and productive life,” he said.
“These important changes are going to be a gamechanger for many adults with ADHD - particularly those living in remote and regional areas – because it will enable more affordable care, closer to home, with a trusted health professional who knows them.”
Minister Nicholls said the legislative changes were developed in consultation with healthcare professionals to improve the lives of those with ADHD in Queensland.
“It was important we heard from healthcare professionals to ensure these changes were safe and staff would have the appropriate training,” he said.
“These changes will be implemented carefully, with safeguards in place to ensure patient safety and quality of care.”
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners Chair Dr Cath Hester said the changes would lead to better outcomes for Queenslanders and their families.
“The Royal Australian College of GPs applauds the Government for supporting high quality GP-led ADHD care closer to home,” she said.
“General practice is the natural home for the care of chronic conditions like ADHD.
“Having a GP who knows you and your medical history is crucial, especially for the care of neurodivergent patients.”
ADHD, a neurodevelopmental disorder, is estimated to affect between six and 10 per cent of children and adolescents, and between two and six per cent of adults in Australia.
