As a parent, noticing differences in your child's development or behaviour can feel overwhelming. You might be wondering whether your child has ADHD, autism, or both – and with Australia's recent healthcare improvements, you're probably asking which assessment to pursue first.
While there isn't actually a specific "$2B program," Australia has made significant investments in neurodevelopmental assessments. The National Autism Strategy 2025-2031 is backed by $42.3 million in funding, and there's a proposal to add both ADHD and autism assessments to Medicare starting July 1, 2026.
The truth is, rather than choosing which assessment to book first, the decision should be based on your specific concerns about your child's development and the symptoms you're observing. Let's explore what you need to know to make the best choice for your family.
Understanding the Key Differences
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) primarily affects attention, hyperactivity, and impulse control. Children with ADHD might struggle to focus on tasks, sit still, or think before acting. They might seem to be constantly "on the go" or have difficulty following instructions.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects social communication and behaviour. Children with autism might have challenges with social interactions, repetitive behaviours, or intense interests in specific topics. They may also experience sensory sensitivities.
It's important to note that these conditions can co-occur – some children have both ADHD and autism, which is why comprehensive assessment is so crucial.
What's Changed in 2025 for Assessments
This year has brought exciting improvements to how we assess neurodevelopmental conditions in children:
ADHD Assessments Now Include:
- Objective tools alongside traditional interviews and rating scales, making diagnostic decisions clearer and faster
- Updated criteria with broader examples, particularly improving accuracy in identifying inattentive presentations
- Better support for girls, who are historically underdiagnosed
- Streamlined clinic pathways to reduce delays from missing information and unclear next steps
Autism Assessments Benefit From:
- The new National Autism Strategy providing clearer guidelines and better resources
- Improved training for healthcare professionals
- Enhanced support systems for families throughout the assessment process
How to Decide Which Assessment Your Child Needs
Instead of asking "which assessment first," consider these guiding questions:
Look at Your Child's Primary Challenges:
Consider ADHD assessment if your child:
- Has trouble paying attention to details or staying focused
- Seems to not listen when spoken to directly
- Struggles to follow through on instructions
- Has difficulty organising tasks and activities
- Avoids or dislikes tasks requiring sustained mental effort
- Loses things necessary for tasks or activities
- Is easily distracted by external stimuli
- Is forgetful in daily activities
- Shows excessive fidgeting or restlessness
- Has trouble waiting their turn
Consider autism assessment if your child:
- Has challenges with social communication and interaction
- Shows repetitive behaviours or restricted interests
- Has difficulty with changes in routine
- Experiences sensory sensitivities (to light, sound, texture, etc.)
- Struggles with nonverbal communication
- Has difficulty developing or maintaining relationships appropriate to their developmental level
- Shows unusual play patterns or intense focus on specific topics
Consider Both Assessments If:
Your child shows signs from both categories, as co-occurrence is common. Research suggests that 30-50% of children with autism also have ADHD symptoms, and many children with ADHD have some autistic traits.
What Both Assessments Include
Whether assessing for ADHD or autism, comprehensive evaluations now involve:
- Multi-informant input from parents, teachers, and your child
- Objective measures when helpful to identify specific difficulties
- Developmental history to understand timeline and context
- Rule-out screening for learning concerns, anxiety, depression, and other neurodevelopmental differences
- Observations of your child in different settings when possible
The Assessment Process: What to Expect
Initial Steps:
- Start with your GP – they can provide referrals and help determine which assessment would be most beneficial
- Gather information – collect school reports, developmental milestones, and examples of concerning behaviours
- Consider timing – assessments work best when your child isn't experiencing major life changes
During Assessment:
The process typically involves multiple appointments over several weeks. Your child will participate in various activities and tests, while you'll complete questionnaires and interviews about their development and behaviour.
Key Improvements in Access
The Medicare proposal would allow assessments to be delivered by paediatricians, psychiatrists, psychologists, nurse practitioners, or general practitioners. This expanded accessibility aims to address the "high levels of unmet demand" and significant diagnosis delays that have characterized Australia's neurodevelopmental assessment landscape.
Previously, families faced waitlists of up to two years. These improvements mean:
- Shorter waiting times
- More qualified professionals available
- Better coordination between services
- Clearer pathways for families
Making the Right Choice for Your Family
Remember, there's no universal "right" answer about which assessment to pursue first. The decision depends on:
- Your child's specific symptoms and challenges
- The impact on their daily life and learning
- Your family's concerns and priorities
- Professional recommendations from your healthcare team
When to Seek Immediate Assessment:
- Your child's challenges are significantly impacting their learning
- Behavioural concerns are affecting family life or relationships
- School has recommended assessment
- You notice regression in previously developed skills
Getting Started with Inspire Health and Medical
At Inspire Health and Medical, our experienced team understands the complexity of neurodevelopmental assessments. We offer comprehensive ADHD and autism assessments with qualified psychologists who specialise in working with children and families.
Our assessment process is designed to be thorough yet comfortable for your child, and we work closely with families to ensure you understand each step. We also provide ongoing support after assessment, helping you access appropriate interventions and support services.
You can speak with our clinicians to discuss your child's needs and determine the most appropriate assessment pathway. We're here to support your family every step of the way.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Whether your child needs an ADHD assessment, autism assessment, or both, the most important step is seeking professional guidance. Early identification and appropriate support can make a significant difference in your child's development and wellbeing.
The improvements in Australia's assessment processes mean better outcomes for families, shorter wait times, and more comprehensive support. Don't let uncertainty hold you back – reaching out for assessment is a positive step toward understanding and supporting your child's unique needs.
Remember, seeking assessment doesn't mean there's something "wrong" with your child. It means you're being proactive about understanding their needs and ensuring they have the best possible support for their development and success.
Your journey toward answers and support starts with one conversation. Whether it's with your GP or directly with a specialist service, taking that first step opens the door to better understanding your child and accessing the support they deserve.
