Tasmanian Liberal MP Simon Behrakis pushes for ADHD inquiry

·

Simon Behrakis, a Hobart City councillor and recently elected Liberal MP, is leading a parliamentary inquiry into the challenges faced by Tasmanians seeking support for Attention-deficit disorder (ADHD).

Behrakis, who was diagnosed with ADHD in Year 8, struggled for years with navigating the medical system and sought re-diagnosis after burnout as an adult. His personal experience of long wait times and inadequate support prompted him to push for the inquiry after being elected to state parliament in 2023.

The inquiry, which has received 60 submissions, highlights significant barriers to ADHD diagnosis and treatment in Tasmania, particularly long waitlists and high costs.

General practitioner Kate Bendall, who specialises in ADHD, said adult patients often face a shortage of available psychiatrists and must rely on expensive telehealth services, with costs ranging from $800 to $2,000.

Photo: ABC.

Delays are particularly concerning for children, with many facing long waits to see paediatricians. These delays could have lasting effects on children’s self-esteem and academic performance.

The inquiry comes shortly after a federal parliamentary inquiry on ADHD services, which made 15 recommendations, including the development of uniform prescribing rules and the expansion of healthcare professionals able to provide ADHD assessments.

The federal government accepted one recommendation fully and provided in-principle support for several others.

Behrakis is optimistic that the Tasmanian inquiry will lead to meaningful change.

“I think everyone’s acknowledged it’s a genuine issue,” he said, stressing the opportunity for significant reform in ADHD support services.

Source: ABC News.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Chris Christofi becomes highest fundraiser in Vinnies CEO Sleepout history

Melbourne entrepreneur and long-time Vinnies ambassador Chris Christofi has raised $400,000 in this year’s Vinnies CEO Sleepout.

Over $17,000 raised for St John NT through Darwin GleNTi 2025 festival

More than $17,000 was raised for St John NT at this year’s Darwin GleNTi festival, thanks to the generosity of attendees.

Major changes for Macquarie Greek Studies Foundation as language program nears end

Macquarie Greek Studies Foundation held its Annual General Meeting at the AHEPA Hall on Sunday, June 22 from 4:30pm.

Derbies, underdogs, and big clashes set for Australia Cup Round of 32

The fixtures for the Hahn Australia Cup 2025 Round of 32 have been revealed following the tournament’s Official Draw on Wednesday night.

Estudiantina of Melbourne to perform soulful tribute to Greek music pioneers

Estudiantina of Melbourne return to Bird’s Basement on Friday, July 25 to present a heartfelt tribute to Rita Abadzi and Kostas Roukounas.

You May Also Like

New era of relations between Greece and QLD marked with National Day event

Over 300 dignitaries took part in cordial relations between Queensland and Greece with a commemoration of Greece’s Independence Day.

Most Greek adolescents have positive view of migrants

A survey carried out by the University Mental Health Research Institute showed Greek children aged between 11-15 are positive about migrants.

Greek restaurant in Melbourne abused following pro-Israeli post

A Greek restaurant in Melbourne has been abused after posting a message of support for the Jewish community on Facebook.