Short answer: Yes, through trained GPs. Since 28 February 2026, South Australian GPs who have completed the RACGP training can assess, diagnose, treat and prescribe medication for ADHD in children aged 8 and over and in adults, without a psychiatrist or paediatrician referral.1
The rules in South Australia
- From 28 February 2026, specially trained SA GPs can assess, diagnose, treat and prescribe medication for ADHD in children aged 8 and over and adults, with no referral to a psychiatrist or paediatrician required.1
- Trained GPs are listed on the RACGP website; SA Health directs patients there to find one.1
- Prescribers must check ScriptCheckSA, South Australia’s real-time prescription monitoring system, before prescribing a monitored medicine.
Rules for prescribing ADHD medication, including stimulants, are set by each state and territory and have been changing quickly. The points above reflect the SA Health position as published in October 2026 — check the linked sources for the current wording.
What this means for you
For South Australians the GP pathway is open: a trained GP can take you from assessment to treatment without a specialist referral.
Diagnosis and prescribing are two different permissions
In every state, diagnosing ADHD and prescribing stimulant medication are governed separately. A diagnosis is a clinical judgement against the DSM-5 criteria that any suitably skilled doctor or psychologist can make; prescribing Schedule 8 stimulants is controlled by state law, with permits, approvals, authorities or designations depending on where you live, and every prescription is recorded in the state’s real-time prescription monitoring system (ScriptCheckSA in South Australia). Read more in who can diagnose ADHD in Australia.
Can I see ADHD GP from South Australia?
Not yet. We currently see patients in Queensland only, and we’re working on opening in other states.
Frequently asked questions
Can a GP diagnose ADHD in South Australia?
Yes. Since 28 February 2026, SA GPs who have completed the approved training can assess, diagnose, treat and prescribe for ADHD in children aged 8 and over and adults.
Do I need a referral to see a GP for ADHD in SA?
No. SA Health says no referral to a psychiatrist or paediatrician is required for a trained GP to assess and treat ADHD.
How do I find a trained GP in SA?
SA Health points patients to the list of trained GPs on the RACGP website.
Next steps
Compare the rules in every state in can a GP diagnose ADHD in Australia, read how much an ADHD diagnosis costs, or start with the free ADHD self-assessment.
This article is general information only and is not medical or legal advice. State prescribing rules change; the official sources linked in the references are the authority. ADHD GP is a private telehealth clinic staffed by AHPRA-registered Australian GPs. We currently see patients in Queensland.
References
- SA Health. Access ADHD care through a GP. 2026. www.sahealth.sa.gov.au — From 28 February 2026, specially trained South Australian GPs can assess, diagnose, treat and prescribe medication for ADHD in children aged 8 and over and adults, without a psychiatrist or paediatrician referral.
Sources were last checked on 5 October 2026. See all sources used on this site on our Sources page.
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