How much is an ADHD diagnosis in Australia? Fees, rebates, and what to expect

Understanding ADHD and why diagnosis matters

If you’ve been wondering whether you or your child might have ADHD, you’re not alone. At Reimagine, we hear from families and individuals every week who are navigating the early stages of this journey—often overwhelmed, confused, and unsure where to start.

ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects people differently. For some, it shows up as endless forgetfulness or emotional rollercoasters. For others, it might be intense restlessness or a brain that just won’t slow down. ADHD can affect thinking, communication, behaviour, and emotional regulation, influencing many aspects of daily life. Whether you’re a parent seeing patterns in your child, or an adult realising, “This explains a lot,” getting a diagnosis can be the first step toward understanding how your brain works—and what support can actually help. Understanding ADHD masking can also be an important part of recognising how symptoms may be hidden in daily life.

But let’s be honest. It can also be expensive, confusing, and filled with jargon. Many people find their daily life and functioning are affected by ADHD symptoms, which can add to the challenges and confusion. That’s why we’re breaking it down: the real costs, rebates, who does what, and why diagnosis is only the beginning.

Receiving an ADHD diagnosis can be life changing for individuals and families, offering clarity and a path forward.

Recognising ADHD symptoms: What to look for

Recognising the signs of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is often the first step toward seeking meaningful support and a thorough assessment. ADHD symptoms can look different from person to person, but they generally fall into two main categories: inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity.

For many adults, ADHD symptoms may have been present since childhood but were overlooked or misunderstood. Common signs include persistent forgetfulness, difficulty focusing on tasks, trouble organising daily activities, and a tendency to lose things. Hyperactivity might show up as restlessness, fidgeting, or feeling unable to relax, while impulsivity can lead to making decisions without thinking them through or interrupting others in conversation.

These symptoms often begin before the age of 12 and can continue throughout life, affecting relationships, work, and daily functioning. If you notice these patterns in yourself or a loved one, it’s important to seek a professional assessment. A thorough assessment by a qualified clinician can help clarify whether these symptoms are due to deficit hyperactivity disorder ADHD or another condition, and guide you toward the right diagnosis and treatment options.

The ADHD pathway: From first concerns to diagnosis

The journey to an ADHD diagnosis—often called the ADHD pathway—starts with recognising that something isn’t quite adding up, whether it’s ongoing struggles with focus, organisation, or managing emotions. The first step is usually a visit to your General Practitioner (GP), who can conduct an initial screening and discuss your mental health concerns. If ADHD is suspected, your GP will provide referrals to a psychologist or psychiatrist for further assessment.

A comprehensive diagnostic assessment follows, which may involve multiple appointments with a psychologist or psychiatrist. During these sessions, the clinician will gather information about your developmental history, childhood symptoms, and current challenges. They may also ask for input from family members or request school reports to build a detailed report of your experiences over time.

The diagnostic process is thorough, looking at your mental health history, behaviour patterns, and relationships to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Only a qualified psychologist or psychiatrist can make a formal diagnosis of ADHD after carefully evaluating all the information. This step-by-step approach ensures that any further assessment or support is tailored to your unique needs, setting the stage for effective treatment and ongoing support.

What does an ADHD assessment involve?

Getting diagnosed with ADHD in Australia generally involves:

• Initial chat with your GP (this is where most people start)

• Referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist

• A comprehensive assessment involving clinical interviews, questionnaires, and sometimes input from family or teachers (especially for children). During this stage, symptoms are assessed by qualified professionals to ensure an accurate understanding.

• A formal diagnosis (if appropriate)

The diagnosis process typically includes gathering a detailed history, symptom assessment, and evaluation by specialists, highlighting the importance of a thorough and structured approach.

At Reimagine, we often say: ADHD is more than a checklist. It’s about understanding the whole person—their history, strengths, challenges, and patterns. A good assessment gives you clarity, not just a label. Clinicians such as psychologists and psychiatrists play a crucial role in conducting these assessments and making an accurate diagnosis.

Who can diagnose ADHD?

In Australia, ADHD can be diagnosed by:

• Psychiatrists (medical doctors specialising in mental health)

• Clinical or registered psychologists (trained in assessment and diagnosis)

These professionals offer a comprehensive ADHD assessment service, which includes thorough evaluation, shared care arrangements with other clinicians, and guidance on diagnosis and treatment options.

Here’s the key difference:

• Psychiatrists can diagnose and prescribe medication. Psychiatrists can also treat ADHD with medication as part of an overall care plan.

• Psychologists can diagnose, but can’t prescribe medication

If medication is being considered, you’ll usually need to see a psychiatrist after the psychologist’s assessment.

So... how much does it actually cost?

Let’s break it down by provider type.

1. Psychiatrist ADHD Assessment (Adult or Child)

• Initial consultation: $400 – $900 (This first in-depth session usually lasts 45–90 minutes, during which the psychiatrist assesses symptoms, developmental history, and any co-occurring conditions.)

• Follow-up appointments: $200 – $500 (A follow up appointment is important for completing the assessment, reviewing previous findings, or conducting additional evaluations to ensure an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.)

• Some Medicare rebates available (usually ~$120 for initial consultations if referred by GP)

• Out-of-pocket cost: Typically $600 – $1,200 for full diagnosis and treatment plan

Psychiatrists often have long waitlists, especially for child assessments. Expect a 3–6 month wait in many areas.

2. Psychologist ADHD Assessment (Child or Adult)

• Initial session: $220 – $280

• Full assessment package: $600 – $1,500 total (over 1–3 sessions)

• Medicare rebate with Mental Health Care Plan: ~$89 per session (up to 10 sessions per year)

• Private health: May rebate a portion, check your policy

At Reimagine, we offer assessment and ongoing therapy, which means you don’t just get a report—you get a plan, support, and someone in your corner.

3. Paediatricians (for children)

• Often involved in early diagnosis for younger children

• May cost $300 – $600 per consult, some Medicare rebate available

What about online ADHD assessments?

There are now many online options for ADHD screening and diagnosis. Some are helpful as a starting point (e.g. questionnaires, symptom checklists). But a formal diagnosis requires a clinical interview with a qualified psychologist or psychiatrist.

If you’re considering online assessments:

• Check their qualifications and AHPRA registration

• Make sure they include follow-up support (not just a PDF report)

• Look for services that are committed to supporting clients after the assessment, not just providing a diagnosis

Telehealth has made ADHD assessments more accessible—especially in rural or remote areas. At Reimagine, we offer both in-person and online assessments depending on your needs. Booking an appointment online for your ADHD assessment is quick and convenient.

Access and equity: navigating barriers to ADHD diagnosis

Accessing an ADHD diagnosis in Australia can be challenging, especially when it comes to cost, wait times, and availability of services. ADHD assessments for adults and children can be expensive, with out-of-pocket costs remaining high even after Medicare rebates. While a Mental Health Care Plan can help reduce some expenses, many people still face significant financial barriers, particularly as there are currently no free public mental health services offering adult ADHD diagnosis.

Wait times for appointments with psychiatrists and psychologists can be lengthy, especially in major cities where demand is high. For those living in rural or remote areas, limited access to specialist services and resources can make the process even more difficult. These barriers can delay diagnosis and treatment, leaving many people with unmet needs.

Addressing these challenges is essential to ensure that everyone—regardless of location or financial situation—can access timely and effective ADHD assessments, diagnosis, and treatment. Advocating for more equitable services and exploring telehealth options can help bridge the gap and provide support to those who need it most.

What a diagnosis actually gives you

We’ve seen first-hand how powerful it is when a client hears the words: “You’re not lazy. Your brain just works differently.”

Austin talks about the relief of finally being able to look back on decades of struggle and see a pattern. For Tristan, it helped explain the daily fatigue from masking and trying to “keep up” in a world that wasn’t designed for ADHD brains.

A diagnosis can:

• Offer language and clarity

• Help you access support at school, uni, or work

• Inform therapy and coaching plans

• Open up the option of medication (if desired)

• Reduce shame, increase self-understanding

A thorough assessment can help distinguish ADHD from other conditions that may have similar symptoms. Clinicians may also screen for autism or other neurodevelopmental disorders during the assessment process to ensure an accurate diagnosis and tailored support.

But it’s not the end goal.

ADHD medication and treatment: what comes next?

Receiving an ADHD diagnosis is a significant milestone, but it’s just the beginning of your journey toward managing ADHD and improving daily life. The next step is to work with your healthcare team to develop a personalised treatment plan. This often includes considering ADHD medication, which can help reduce symptoms and improve focus, but finding the right medication and dosage is a process that requires ongoing support from your doctor or psychiatrist.

Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), is another key part of treatment, helping you build practical strategies for managing ADHD symptoms and addressing any co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety. Lifestyle changes—such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and stress management—can also make a big difference in how you feel day to day.

A mental health care plan ensures you have access to the right support, whether that’s medication, therapy, or both. Ongoing support and regular follow-up appointments are essential for adjusting your treatment plan as your needs change. With the right combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes, you can take meaningful steps toward managing ADHD and living a more fulfilling life.

Diagnosis is only the beginning

This is where we get real: a diagnosis won’t magically fix everything.

It’s a starting point. The real change happens through therapy, daily strategies, environmental support, and learning how to work with your brain, not against it.

At Reimagine, we’re big believers in the long game:

• Therapy to build emotional regulation and executive function

• ADHD-friendly planning tools and routines

• Parent coaching and family sessions

• Guidance on school or workplace adjustments

Shared-care arrangements between psychiatrists and GPs for prescribing ADHD medication are increasingly common in Australia.

We don’t just assess and say goodbye. We walk with you—messy days, wins, setbacks and all.

Despite these supports, there remains an unmet need for ADHD diagnosis and support due to gaps in the current health system.

Real talk: why cost shouldn’t stop you

We know it’s expensive. And in a cost-of-living crisis, it might feel impossible. But there are ways to make it more accessible:

• Use a Mental Health Care Plan: Get rebates on therapy with a psychologist

• Check private health: Some extras policies cover assessments

• Telehealth options: Can be more affordable and reduce travel costs

• Start with one session: You don’t have to do it all at once

• Public pathways: Talk to your GP about referral to public clinics (waitlists apply)

If you’re unsure where to begin, book a 15-minute intro call with our team. We’ll point you in the right direction—even if that’s not us.

Key takeaways

• ADHD assessment costs vary widely but typically range from $600–$1,500

• Medicare rebates are available through a Mental Health Care Plan

• Psychologists can’t prescribe meds; psychiatrists can

• Online and telehealth options have made access easier

• Diagnosis is just the first step—ongoing support matters most

Final thoughts

Getting an ADHD diagnosis can be a game-changer. But it doesn’t stop there. The support, the tools, the therapy—that’s what helps you or your child live well with ADHD.

At Reimagine Psychology Melbourne, we combine clinical knowledge with lived experience. We’re here for the long-haul. No judgment. No quick fixes. Just real support for real people.

Disclaimer: This information is general and does not replace advice from a qualified health professional. Always speak to a GP or psychologist about your specific needs.

Ready to start? Learn more or book at Reimagine Psychology Melbourne.