A little less red tape, a simpler pathway to ongoing care.
If you have been diagnosed with ADHD by a psychiatrist or paediatrician, there is good news when it comes to managing your medication.
From 14 October 2026, changes to Victorian prescribing regulations mean that GPs can prescribe certain ADHD stimulant medications without applying for a separate government permit, provided the appropriate specialist documentation is in place and all relevant requirements are met.
What has changed?
Previously, patients who had completed an ADHD assessment with a psychiatrist or paediatrician often needed their GP to obtain a Schedule 8 permit from the Victorian Department of Health before prescribing their ADHD medication.
Under the new arrangements, a GP can prescribe eligible ADHD medications without this additional permit when they have a valid ADHD treatment instruction from a psychiatrist, paediatrician or appropriately qualified practitioner.
Importantly, the specialist's letter must be addressed directly to the GP who will be prescribing your medication. It should outline the relevant diagnostic information and treatment recommendations required under the new arrangements.
What does this mean for you?
If you already have an ADHD diagnosis and would like your GP to manage your ongoing prescriptions, the process may now be more straightforward.
You will still need the appropriate documentation from your specialist, and your GP will need to review your circumstances and determine whether prescribing is clinically appropriate.
The change removes an administrative step, but it does not remove the need for appropriate assessment, monitoring or follow-up care.
Do I still need to see a psychiatrist?
Your psychiatrist or paediatrician remains an important part of your care. They can provide the assessment findings, treatment recommendations and documentation your GP needs to support ongoing prescribing.
If you would like your GP to manage your ongoing medication, you may need to contact your specialist to request a treatment instruction addressed specifically to your GP.
Depending on your circumstances, your specialist may also recommend further reviews or ongoing specialist involvement.
What should I do next?
If you have an existing ADHD diagnosis and would like to discuss ongoing medication management with your GP, we recommend:
Your GP will review the documentation and your individual circumstances before deciding whether they can prescribe under the new arrangements.
At Next Practice Prahran, we believe good healthcare should feel clear, considered and connected. These changes are a welcome step towards simplifying the administrative side of ADHD care while keeping your health and safety at the centre of every prescribing decision.
If you have questions about your individual circumstances, please contact our team to discuss the next steps.
Please note: These changes apply in Victoria and are subject to specific eligibility and documentation requirements. They do not guarantee that every GP can prescribe ADHD medication for every patient.
