GP ADHD Prescribing in Victoria
Victorian GPs with recognised training can diagnose ADHD and start medication for eligible patients aged 6 and over. The Department of Health lists practices with trained ADHD GPs. Ask the practice about appointments, eligible ages and fees.
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The Current Situation in Victoria
Trained GPs can start treatment for eligible patients. Check the Victorian stimulant permit requirementsfor initial and ongoing prescribing, including the ADHD treatment instruction pathway.
Current Rules (2026)
- GPs who completed the recognised training can assess and start treatment for eligible patients aged 6 and over
- A valid ADHD treatment instruction can support ongoing stimulant prescriptions by a GP or nurse practitioner
- The permit exception applies in specified circumstances, including for eligible patients without drug dependence
- Prescribers should follow the current Schedule 8 requirements and SafeScript obligations
Why This Matters
- Check the official list for trained GPs in your area
- Ask about appointments, eligibility, likely fees and Medicare rebates before booking
- An assessment may take more than one appointment
- Your GP can advise if a specialist referral is appropriate
What's Changing
The Victorian Government committed $750,000 in February 2026 to train 150 GPs through RACGP-accredited training, following the successful models in Queensland and NSW.
Queensland Model Success
Since December 2025, specialist QLD GPs can initiate stimulant prescriptions for adult ADHD. The expanded authorisation applies within existing dose limits.
NSW Followed Suit
NSW continuation prescribing began in September 2025. Authorised endorsed GPs can now assess, diagnose and start medication for eligible patients.
$750K GP Training Commitment
In February 2026, the Victorian Government announced $750,000 to train 150 GPs through RACGP-accredited training. The department now confirms GPs who completed recognised training can diagnose and start ADHD medication for eligible patients aged 6 and over.
Training: September–October 2026
The first cohort undertook online modules and a two-day workshop in September and October 2026.
Victoria's Reform Path
$750K commitment announced
Victorian Government announces funding for 150 GPs via RACGP training
First cohort trains
Selected GPs undertake RACGP modules and a workshop
Schedule 8 permit rules updated
Permit exceptions expand for ADHD in specified circumstances
What Victorian Patients Can Do Now
Ask your GP about assessment, a referral if needed, and support while you wait. Contact a practice from the trained GP list for current availability.
Get Screened by Your GP
Ask your GP about assessment and support. If the practice does not offer the trained GP pathway, ask about an appropriate referral.
Explore Assessment Options
Check the official trained GP list for a nearby practice. Your GP can also advise on specialist and telehealth options.
Prepare for Your Appointment
Ask the practice what to bring. This may include information about current concerns, developmental history and any previous reports or treatment.
ADHD Screening Tools for Victorian GPs
Even before prescribing reforms, Victorian GPs can use validated screening tools to support referrals, build clinical documentation, and prepare for expanded prescribing rights.
Clinical Assessment Forms
Adult ADHD Assessment (DSM-5), Child ADHD Assessment, plus comorbidity screening tools — all auto-scored with criterion grouping. Ready for GP prescribing when reforms arrive.
Free ADHD Screener
Quick ADHD screening test patients can try before booking an appointment. Results can be shared with their GP or specialist to inform the clinical assessment.
Common Questions About GP ADHD Prescribing in Victoria
Can my GP prescribe ADHD medication in Victoria?
Victorian GPs with recognised ADHD training can diagnose ADHD and start medication for eligible patients aged 6 and over. A GP or nurse practitioner can provide ongoing stimulant treatment under the applicable rules, including a permit exception in specified circumstances when there is a valid ADHD treatment instruction.
When did the trained GP ADHD pathway start in Victoria?
The Victorian Department of Health confirms GPs who completed recognised training can now diagnose ADHD and prescribe ADHD medicines. It publishes a list of practices with trained GPs. Contact the practice for appointments, eligibility and fees.
How long are ADHD wait times in Melbourne?
Availability varies by practice and assessment pathway. Use the Victorian Department of Health list to find a trained GP and ask the practice about wait times, fees and how many appointments are usually needed.
What can I do while waiting for ADHD assessment in Victoria?
Talk to your GP about assessment, support while you wait and whether a referral is appropriate. You can also ask a practice on the Victorian trained GP list if it can see you.
What ADHD screening tools can Victorian GPs use?
A GP can use a screener such as the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale to support a clinical assessment or referral. ClientForms offers structured DSM-5 ADHD assessments that group responses by criterion for the GP to review.
Sources & Further Reading
- Victorian Department of Health (opens in new tab) — VIC prescribing regulations, $750K GP training reform, and regulatory framework
- Queensland Health (opens in new tab) · Queensland GP prescribing rules
- Victorian stimulant permit requirements (opens in new tab) — GP training resources and clinical guidelines for ADHD
- Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) (opens in new tab) — Official PBS medicine listings including stimulant authority requirements
. Information is general guidance only — verify current rules with the Victorian Department of Health.
See the full state-by-state guide: GP ADHD Prescribing in Australia →
Queensland (live since Dec 2025): GP ADHD Prescribing in Queensland →
NSW (endorsed and continuation prescribing): GP ADHD Prescribing in NSW →
Western Australia: GP ADHD Prescribing in WA →
South Australia (reforms announced): GP ADHD Prescribing in SA →
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AADPA-aligned ADHD assessment tools for Victorian GPs. Screening, diagnosis, childhood history, and functional impact. Scored instantly with clinical severity bands.
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Validated DSM-5 ADHD assessments with instant scoring — ready for Victorian GPs during assessment and follow-up. Free plan available.