ADHD in Queensland: What the New GP Diagnosis Changes Mean
ADHD in Queensland: What the New GP Diagnosis Changes Mean
ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, organisation, memory, emotional regulation, and activity levels. It looks different for everyone. Some people experience inattention and forgetfulness; others struggle with restlessness or impulsivity; many live with a combination of both.
I haven’t written a blog post in a while, but the recent news about Queensland allowing GPs to diagnose ADHD in adults felt important to talk about, especially given how challenging, expensive, and inaccessible assessments can be.
A Quick Overview of ADHD
ADHD is often misunderstood. Historically, it was viewed mainly as a childhood condition that affected hyperactive boys. We now know:
ADHD continues into adulthood for many people
It often presents differently in girls and women
Inattentive ADHD can be subtle but still significantly impact daily life
Neurodivergent traits show up uniquely from person to person
This shift in understanding is part of why ADHD diagnoses have increased over the past decade , not necessarily because ADHD is “more common,” but because professionals are getting better at recognising all presentations.
The New ADHD GP Diagnosis Pathway in Queensland
As of December 2025, Queensland will allow eligible GPs to diagnose ADHD in adults and prescribe ADHD medication. Previously, diagnosis required an assessment from a psychiatrist, or trained psychologist.
This change has been described as a “game changer,” potentially reducing wait times and increasing access to assessment.
Potential benefits of GP involvement:
More options for people seeking diagnosis
Reduced waitlists for psychiatrists
Greater accessibility, especially in regional areas
Potentially lower costs compared to specialist pathways
Areas of uncertainty:
No mandatory additional training is required for GPs
ADHD assessments are time-intensive, and long appointments may involve out-of-pocket fees
It’s unclear how thorough the process will be across different clinics
Some complex presentations will still need specialist assessment
Cost Considerations
ADHD assessments can be very expensive ,often ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 depending on the provider and level of testing. For many clients, this cost is a major barrier.
There is hope that GP-led assessments may create more affordable pathways, but it may still vary widely between clinics.
As a psychologist, I complete ADHD assessments from time to time, and I’m often reminded of just how many steps are involved (clinical interviews, questionnaires, scoring, interpretation, report writing, and a feedback session). Because each step takes considerable time and clinical expertise, the overall cost can feel high.
While it’s understandable that some people feel ADHD assessments are expensive, the fees do reflect the hours of work and the level of training required to complete them thoroughly and responsibly. Unfortunately, this can create a financial barrier for many people who may benefit from an assessment but are unable to afford one.
Community Reactions: Accessibility vs. Quality Concerns
Browse any Reddit thread or ADHD community discussion, and you'll see divided opinions:
Supportive views include:
Relief about shorter waitlists
Appreciation for increased accessibility
Recognition that many GPs already manage ADHD long-term
Concerns include:
Uncertainty about variability in assessment quality
The risk of rushed or incomplete evaluations
Lack of clarity about GP training requirements
Both perspectives are valid. This is a big shift — and big shifts take time to settle.
Why This Change Matters for Clients
1. More accessible pathways
People who previously couldn't afford private assessments may now have more options.
2. Better continuity of care
GPs are often clients’ first point of contact. When GPs, psychologists, and psychiatrists collaborate, clients benefit from consistent support.
3. ADHD is more than diagnosis
Medication can be helpful, but therapy plays an important role too, supporting emotional regulation, routines, executive functioning, identity, self-esteem, and relationships.
If You’re Considering ADHD Assessment
If you’re unsure where to start, I’m always happy to talk through:
What the assessment process looks like
Whether a GP or psychologist assessment is right for you
What to expect from a report
How therapy can support ADHD management
How to prepare for your first appointment
Everyone’s journey with ADHD is unique and you deserve a pathway that feels informed, accessible, and compassionate.
Further Readings
Queensland Government. (2025). GP ADHD diagnosis reform.
RACGP. (2025). Game changer: GPs allowed to diagnose ADHD.
AMA Queensland. (2025). Better access for ADHD care.
Metro South Health. (2025). Collaborative ADHD care model.
ABC News. (2025). GP ADHD reforms and cost concerns.
Clear Health Psychology. (n.d.). ADHD assessment guide.
AADPA. (2023). ADHD Senate Inquiry Submission