Tuesday, 3 February 2026

 Paul EDBROOKE (Frankston) (19:44): I have spoken with a local constituent this morning who, like me, was overjoyed at the Premier’s announcement earlier today that GPs will soon be able to diagnose and prescribe ADHD medications to children over the age of six right through to adulthood. Having waited two years to see a paediatrician for her son, Liz expressed just how life-changing this is for families and children. I heard how being unable to access that support put unnecessary stress on the entire family unit and his teachers at school. Daily phone calls and emails from teachers are a constant reminder of their endless waitlist. Having the ability to visit their trusted family GP to receive a diagnosis and prescriptions will remove the many barriers individuals like this family face when accessing treatment and care. With positive flow-on effects for classroom management – supporting our students whilst reducing teacher burnout – this is an absolute game changer. I am proud to be part of a government that supports families and individuals to thrive, strengthening our healthcare options and giving Victorians more accessible health care and a stronger community. This announcement will lift the burden on families. It will relieve stress and relieve financial pressures, and people will no longer have to wait years to see a paediatrician, a psychologist or a psychiatrist. And as a former teacher, I have seen families have to go through this in the state government system and at special developmental schools. It is painful for families and painful for teachers, and it often stalls the education of children. This is an absolute game changer.