Election Promises Put ADHD in the Spotlight

GPs will be able to voluntarily train to diagnose ADHD in a Victorian government scheme announced in February.

Several other states – including New South Wales – have followed suit, rolling out almost identical plans.

(Image credit: Attention Deficit Disorder Association)

ADHD and neurodiversity have become a battleground topic ahead of the Victorian November election.

The Victorian policy aims to reduce inequality in ADHD diagnosis through improved financial accessibility, with current ADHD testing costing up to $2000. 

In September, 150 GPs will begin training.

The Victorian Opposition, led by Liberal MP Jess Wilson, announced a counter election promise last month.

The Liberal Party’s $156 million School Starters policy pledge includes free ADHD and Autism screening for prep students followed by private specialist treatment.

But what policy would actually make the biggest difference?

RMIT Professor Berenice Nyland says that while the Labor GP training policy seems a step in the right direction by reducing diagnostic wait times and improving accessibility, neither policy seems satisfactory.

“They both revolve around the question of diagnosis, which is difficult as there is no objective test, and medication,” Nyland said.

“I would like to see more resourcing for teacher training, environmental improvements and non-medication solutions,”  She said.

Deputy Premier and Education Minister Ben Carroll said the maternal child health system already screens children with ADHD and Autism before prep starts, however experts say improvements can be made.

“The history of ADHD has been checkered and the idea that it is now one of the most prevalent diagnoses in Australia is possibly why it has become a political target,” Nyland said. 

Carroll rejected the Coalition’s policy. 

“This announcement is all spin and no substance,” he said.

Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy welcomed the Coalition’s plan in an article published by The Age, but said that ongoing care post diagnosis is paramount.

The Australian Psychological Society emphasised the need for GP diagnostic training for ADHD in 2024, but acknowledged the easy weaponisation of the position.

“About 3 per cent is the population estimate for prevalence. But when you’ve got private schools with 20 per cent – well,” Dr Ian Hickie from the Australian Psychological Society said.

Hickie said the answer to better ADHD support is scientific research, higher accuracy and accessibility in diagnosing, and broad cultural acceptance.