Accessing ADHD Care in NSW and Bondi: The Challenges, New GP Prescribing Pathways and How Ocean Medical Practice Can Help
Although awareness of ADHD has increased substantially across Australia, many patients still face significant barriers to accessing diagnosis and treatment. Long waiting lists, high specialist fees and the need for ongoing prescriptions can make managing ADHD both stressful and expensive.
Fortunately, recent reforms in New South Wales are improving access to care by expanding the role of appropriately trained General Practitioners (GPs) in the ongoing management of ADHD. These changes are helping many patients receive more convenient, affordable and continuous care closer to home.
There are now several pathways to access ADHD medications. NSW now has three distinct ADHD prescribing pathways, reflecting the major reforms introduced from September 2025 and expanded during 2026. The aim is to improve access while ensuring patients with complex ADHD continue to receive specialist care.
| Pathway | Who can provide care? | Can diagnose ADHD? | Can initiate stimulants? | Can continue stimulant prescriptions? |
| 1. Specialist pathway | Psychiatrist, paediatrician, neurologist | Yes | ✅ Yes | Yes |
| 2. GP Continuation Prescriber
(introduced in September 2025) |
GP with NSW-approved training and authority | No | ❌ No (unless under an approved transfer/co-management arrangement) | Yes |
| 3. GP Endorsed Prescriber
(introduced in 2026 with very limited access at this moment) |
GP with advanced NSW endorsement | Yes | ✅ Yes | Yes |
- Specialist pathway (Traditional model)
This remains the standard pathway for patients with:
- new ADHD assessments
- diagnostic uncertainty and/or significant psychiatric comorbidity
- treatment-resistant ADHD and/or complicated medication regimens
- substance use disorders
- severe cardiovascular risk
- children or adults requiring complex multidisciplinary care.
Specialists can
- perform comprehensive ADHD assessment, diagnose ADHD
- commence stimulant therapy and titrate medication
- prescribe both stimulant and non-stimulant medications; and
- manage complex adverse effects
Psychiatrists and paediatricians continue to prescribe under NSW class authorities for most ADHD patients without needing individual patient approval in routine circumstances.
- GP Continuation Prescriber pathway
This pathway commenced 1 September 2025. It was designed primarily to reduce unnecessary specialist review appointments for stable patients. To become a continuation prescriber a GP must:
- complete NSW-endorsed ADHD education
- apply to NSW Health
- receive General Authority approval and comply with NSW prescribing criteria.
Eligible patients
The patient must generally:
- be aged 6 years or older
- have a confirmed ADHD diagnosis, with an established management plan.
- already be on medication and be clinically stable
What continuation prescribers CAN do:
- prescribe dexamfetamine
- prescribe lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)
- prescribe methylphenidate preparations
- prescribe non-stimulants
- monitor blood pressure and weight
- review side effects and provide repeat prescriptions
- undertake routine ADHD reviews.
What they CANNOT do:
Generally they cannot independently:
- diagnose ADHD
- initiate stimulant treatment for a new patient
- significantly alter complex medication regimens outside the approved criteria.
Patients still require periodic review (typically every 6–12 months) by the managing GP or specialist depending on the care arrangement. Dr Thao Nguyen is a continuation prescriber.
- GP Endorsed Prescriber pathway
This is the major reform introduced during 2026. Selected GPs undergo substantially more comprehensive training than continuation prescribers. These GPs can independently manage many uncomplicated ADHD patients. There are currently a very limited number of GPs able to do this.
Endorsed Prescribers can
- Diagnose ADHD and Commence stimulant medication
- Titrate medication and Continue prescribing
- Manage uncomplicated ADHD independently
They remain expected to refer patients whose presentations are outside the endorsed scope or become clinically complex.
Co-management pathway
Many patients will continue to receive care using a shared-care model.
Typical pathway:
- Psychiatrist diagnoses ADHD and starts medication. Once Medication stabilised.
- GP becomes continuation prescriber and provides ongoing prescriptions and monitoring.
- Psychiatrist reviews if:
- symptoms worsen, adverse effects develop
- medication needs changing or diagnosis becomes uncertain.
NSW Health specifically allows continuation prescribers to prescribe under approved co-management and transfer-of-care arrangements when the relevant criteria are met.
Non-stimulant medications
An important distinction is that non-stimulant ADHD medications (such as atomoxetine, guanfacine and clonidine) are not subject to the same NSW Health approval requirements as Schedule 8 psychostimulants. Their prescribing is governed by usual prescribing standards rather than the psychostimulant authority process.
Schedule 8 stimulant prescribing requirements
For Schedule 8 stimulants, NSW requirements include:
- NSW Health authorisation (general authority or class authority as applicable)
- approval number recorded on prescriptions where required
- compliance with Schedule 8 prescribing legislation
- repeat interval specified on repeat prescriptions
- pharmacist verification requirements before dispensing.
Which patients are suitable for GP management?
Appropriate for GP continuation care
- Established ADHD diagnosis on Stable medication dose
- Good symptom control and only require routine monitoring only
- No major psychiatric instability and no concerning cardiovascular issues
Specialist care is recommended when there is:
- Diagnostic uncertainty
- Co-morbid psychological conditions such as: Bipolar disorder, Psychosis, Severe depression, Significant anxiety requiring complex management
- Active substance dependence or Complex polypharmacy
- Multiple failed stimulant trials and/or Treatment-resistant ADHD
- Significant cardiovascular disease
The NSW reforms have created a tiered model of ADHD care:
- Specialists continue to manage complex cases and can diagnose and initiate treatment.
- GP Continuation Prescribers can provide ongoing prescribing and monitoring for patients with an established diagnosis who are stable on treatment.
- GP Endorsed Prescribers (introduced in 2026) can diagnose, initiate and manage many straightforward ADHD cases independently after completing advanced NSW-approved training and receiving the required authority. This model is intended to improve access while maintaining clear referral pathways for complex patients.
What Does This Mean for Patients?
For many patients, it means:
- Fewer specialist appointments for routine repeat prescriptions
- Better continuity of care with a trusted GP
- Easier access to medication reviews
- Reduced travel time
- More convenient appointment availability
- Lower ongoing healthcare costs for many patients
It is important to understand that not every GP is authorised to prescribe ADHD stimulant medication, and eligibility depends on both the GP meeting NSW Health requirements and the patient satisfying the continuation prescribing criteria.
Can My GP Diagnose ADHD?
At present, most patients will still require assessment and diagnosis by a psychiatrist or paediatrician before stimulant medication is commenced.
NSW is progressively expanding the role of trained GPs in ADHD care. While continuation prescribing is already available through authorised GPs, further reforms are being implemented that will allow additional specially trained GPs to diagnose ADHD and initiate treatment under defined eligibility criteria as these programs continue to roll out.
Because these reforms are evolving, your GP can advise which pathway is most appropriate for your circumstances.
How Dr Thao Nguyen Can Help
At Ocean Medical – Bondi’s trusted medical centre, Dr Thao Nguyen is a continuation prescriber who believes in individualised, comprehensive, patient-centred care. For eligible patients who have already been diagnosed by a psychiatrist or other appropriate specialist, Dr Nguyen works collaboratively with your treating specialist to provide ongoing ADHD management.
Depending on your individual circumstances AND the applicable NSW prescribing requirements, the ADHD review appointments may include:
- Monitoring treatment effectiveness
- Monitoring blood pressure, heart rate and weight
- Assessing medication side effects
- Reviewing mental health and wellbeing
- Coordinating care with your psychiatrist
- Providing ongoing prescriptions where clinically appropriate and in accordance with NSW Health prescribing requirements
- Supporting long-term management and follow-up
This collaborative model allows patients to continue receiving specialist oversight while enjoying the convenience and continuity of seeing their regular GP closer to home.
Why Choose Ocean Medical Practice Bondi?
Patients throughout Bondi and Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs choose Ocean Medical Practice because we offer:
- Experienced, approachable GPs, Evidence-based medical care
- Collaborative management with specialists
- Convenient online bookings
- Modern facilities
- Continuity of care
- Personalised treatment plans
We proudly care for patients living in:
- Bondi, Bondi Beach, North Bondi
- Tamarama, Bronte
- Bellevue Hill, Rose Bay, Dover Heights
- Waverley, Bondi Junction
- Double Bay, Woollahra, Paddington; and
- The wider Eastern Suburbs of Sydney for over 20 years
Whether you are seeking advice about ADHD symptoms, require a referral for assessment, or need ongoing management after diagnosis, our team is here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can adults be diagnosed with ADHD?
Yes. Many Australians are first diagnosed during adulthood, often after experiencing lifelong difficulties with attention, organisation or emotional regulation.
- Does ADHD affect women differently?
Yes. Women are more likely to have predominantly inattentive symptoms and may therefore be diagnosed later in life because their symptoms can be less outwardly noticeable.
- Can my GP diagnose ADHD?
GPs can identify symptoms, exclude other medical conditions and arrange referrals. Currently, the GPs at Ocean Medical Practice cannot initiate ADHD medications.
- Can my GP prescribe ADHD medication?
Yes, in some circumstances. Authorised NSW GP continuation prescribers can provide ongoing prescriptions for eligible patients with an established diagnosis and stable treatment plan in accordance with NSW Health requirements. At Ocean Medical Practice, Dr Thao Nguyen is a continuation prescriber who may be able to continue your prescription medication.
- Are ADHD medications addictive?
When prescribed appropriately and taken as directed under medical supervision, stimulant medications are considered safe and effective for treating ADHD. Your doctor will discuss the benefits, risks and monitoring requirements before treatment.
- Will I need lifelong medication?
Not necessarily. Treatment is individualised, and medication should be reviewed regularly. Some people continue medication long term, while others may adjust or discontinue treatment under medical supervision.
- Can ADHD be treated without medication?
Yes. Many patients benefit from psychological therapy, ADHD coaching, lifestyle changes and workplace or educational supports. Medication is one component of comprehensive care.
- Is ADHD hereditary?
ADHD has a strong genetic component and frequently runs in families.
- What should I bring to my first ADHD appointment?
Bring any previous psychiatric reports, school reports (if available), current medication lists, referral letters and any relevant psychological assessments. These documents help streamline your assessment and ongoing care.
- Can Ocean Medical Practice help if I already have an ADHD diagnosis?
Yes. If you have already been diagnosed by a psychiatrist or other appropriate specialist, Ocean Medical Practice can work collaboratively with your treating specialist to provide ongoing monitoring and, where appropriate and permitted under NSW regulations, continuing ADHD prescribing.
Related Health Services at Ocean Medical Practice
Many patients with ADHD also benefit from comprehensive general practice care.
You may also be interested in:
- Women’s Health
- Men’s Health
- Mental Health
- ADHD
- Chronic Disease Management
- Weight Management
- Fertility and Preconception Care
- Preventative Health Checks
- Childhood and Adult Vaccinations
These services allow us to provide holistic care that considers both your physical and mental wellbeing.
Book an ADHD Appointment at Ocean Medical – Bondi Medical Centre
If you are concerned that you or your child may have ADHD, or if you already have a diagnosis and are looking for ongoing, collaborative management, the team at Ocean Medical Practice Bondi is here to help. Our experienced GPs provide compassionate, evidence-based care for patients throughout Bondi, Bondi Beach, Bondi Junction, North Bondi, Tamarama, Bronte, Bellevue Hill and Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs.
Whether you require an initial assessment, referral to a psychiatrist, ongoing monitoring or collaborative medication management with your specialist, we are committed to helping you achieve the best possible health outcomes.
Book your appointment online today and take the next step towards personalised ADHD care.
Book Online: Ocean Medical Practice Online Booking
More Information
If you are interested in how ADHD is assessed and diagnosed, as well the the 3 main types of ADHD, read our earlier article titled ‘ADHD Assessment & Treatment in Bondi | A Bondi doctors/GP Update’. For treatment options including non-pharmacological therapies, read more here.
Last medically reviewed: 9 July 2026
Reviewed by: Doctors at Ocean Medical Practice – Bondi Medical Centre
Location: Bondi Road, Bondi NSW
