On 6 November 2023, the Community Affairs References Committee published its report ‘Assessment and support services for people with ADHD’. One year later, the Federal Government has still not provided their responses to the 15 recommendations made by the Committee.
In early 2023, the Senate announced an inquiry into the barriers to consistent, timely and best practice assessment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and support services for people with ADHD.
The Committee’s report detailed 15 recommendations, ranging from the funding of a National Framework for ADHD, improving access to healthcare and support, and improving specialised health services in institutionalised settings.
Once a Senate Committee hands down their report, the Government has 3 months to provide a response. It’s now been 12 months.
ADHD Australia CEO, Melissa Webster, is calling on the Government to urgently respond to the Committee’s recommendations.
“In the past year, there have been multiple occasions where individuals have been unable to get access to their medication due to supply issues,” said Ms Webster. “The Government must respond to the recommendations as a priority to ensure people with ADHD are not being left behind.
Matt Tice, ADHD Australia Chair, said the delay isn’t just affecting those with ADHD.
“The recommendations listed in the report would go a long way in also providing support to families that are navigating ADHD for the first time”, said Mr Tice. “A lot of people don’t know where to go, and if they do, they are often met with costs that they simply cannot afford.”
ADHD Australia is looking forward to working closely with the Government once a Response to the recommendations has been released.
Contact: media@adhdaustralia.org.au
