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Always on the go, or can't stay on task: what to look for and where to get help

Can't sit still, hard to finish tasks, zones out constantly.

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Understanding focus & attention

Many parents worry when they notice their child is developing differently from other children the same age. These feelings are common, and help is available. Many allied health professionals in Australia work with children in this area.

Below are the services that most often help children with focus & attention, and what each one does.

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Providers who can help with focus & attention

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Cost & funding

Fees depend on the service, the provider and the length of the session. Ask each provider for their fees before the first visit.

If an ADHD assessment is the next step, it usually starts with your GP, who can refer your child to a paediatrician. With a GP referral, Medicare pays a rebate for the paediatrician visit. Ask each provider for the full cost of an assessment before you book. Medicare also pays a rebate for some psychology sessions when your GP writes a Mental Health Treatment Plan.

If your child has an NDIS plan that includes these supports, you can use it. If your plan is self-managed or plan-managed, you can also use providers that are not NDIS registered. If the NDIA manages your plan, you must use registered providers.

  • ADHD assessment fees

    $1,240–$1,800

    The middle half of fees on 33 provider websites, April 2026.

Note: NDIS price limits are the national maximums for NDIA-managed and plan-managed plans (NDIS Pricing Schedule 2026–27); remote areas have higher limits. Medicare rebates are from MBS Online, 1 July 2026. Providers can charge more than the rebate. Assessment fees come from provider websites in April 2026.

Work out what you might pay: cost calculatorRead our guide to NDIS early intervention funding

Frequently asked questions

Is it normal for my child to be always on the go?

Toddlers are very active and find it hard to sit still. They are only just developing self-control, and waiting even a few seconds can be hard for them. Most children find it hard to pay attention or control impulsive behaviour some of the time. Paying attention and controlling impulses are skills children learn as they grow and their brain develops.

What can make it harder for my child to focus on a given day?

A child may be easily distracted in a busy place. They may find big feelings harder to manage when they are hungry, tired or when things do not go their way. Sitting still can sometimes be hard, such as when children are tired, hungry or unwell. Most children concentrate better on activities they enjoy.

What can I try at home to help my child concentrate?

Your child will need practice and lots of help from you to learn to pay attention. Let your child be active before they sit still, and remove distractions when they need to concentrate. You can also offer short tasks that are easy to finish, and have short breaks between activities.

When should I talk to a doctor about my child's focus?

The Royal Children's Hospital says that if your child's behaviours are affecting their daily life and causing problems, it is best to speak with their doctor. It also says to take your child to their regular doctor (GP) if you think they may have ADHD. You can still get help even if your child does not get a diagnosis of ADHD.

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