EOI applications for the GP training program have now closed and selections will be confirmed by the end of July.
About the reforms
In February 2026, the Victorian Government announced reforms that aim to improve access to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) care for Victorians.
From September 2026, an initial 150 General Practitioners (GPs) will undertake a training program to enable them to safely diagnose and treat ADHD in both adults and children aged 6 years and over.
In addition, the Virtual Emergency Department (VED) will provide short-term access to ADHD prescriptions for people with an existing ADHD diagnosis who require urgent access to medication and cannot access their usual treating clinician. The service is designed to act as a safety net, not a replacement for routine or ongoing ADHD care.
Adults will be able to access the service from September 2026. It is currently available for children under 18 years. Further information about the children’s service is available at the VED.
Training program
The GP training program is being developed and delivered by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP).
EOI applications have now closed and selections will be confirmed by the end of July.
How will GPs be selected for the program?
The selection process is designed to aim for geographical spread of applicants, with prioritisation for GPs caring for patients and communities with identified higher needs and access barriers.
Priority will be given to GPs practising in the following areas; non-metro practices (MMM 3+), SEIFA quintile 1 and 2, community health, mental health services, custodial medicine and addiction medicine.
Priority areas were informed by the Department of Health's Expert Advisory Panel, expert specialist GPs and key stakeholders, including the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP).
How prescribing will work
After completion of the online modules and 2-day workshop, the 150 GPs who participated in this program will be able to diagnose and prescribe ADHD medicines.
Initially, only the RACGP training will be recognised as endorsed training for GPs to diagnose and initiate ADHD medicines.
If Government approves the expansion of the number of GPs able to diagnose and initiate ADHD medicines in Victoria, recognition of prior learning may be considered.
Use of SafeScript
Stimulants for ADHD will continue to be monitored through SafeScript. It will continue to be mandatory for GPs to check SafeScript prior to writing or dispensing a prescription for medicines monitored through the system.
For further information, please refer to Medicines monitored in SafeScript on the Victorian Department of Health website.
Future of the program
The Victorian Government has committed to an initial 150 GPs undertaking training to enable them to safely diagnose and treat ADHD in both adults and children aged 6 years and over.
Any future expansion of the program is subject to government endorsement.
Updated