Our team was privileged to attend the Australasian ADHD Professionals Association (AADPA)’s 8th Annual Conference, held from July 25-27, 2025, in Sydney. This event brought together leading experts, clinicians, researchers, educators, and advocates with lived experience to discuss the evolving landscape of ADHD care across the lifespan in Australia and beyond. Centred around the theme “ADHD: A Shared Focus – Clinic + Community + Classroom”, this three-day conference provided a vital platform for sharing innovative research, best practices, and collaborative efforts aimed at enhancing the lives of individuals with ADHD.
A Gathering of Global Minds
Featuring an impressive line-up of speakers from various countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Brail, and the United States, the conference fostered an environment of collaboration and knowledge exchange. Attendees engaged in thought-provoking discussions and workshops that highlighted the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to ADHD. Experts shared insights on the latest advancements in diagnosis, treatment, and advocacy, ensuring that participants left with a comprehensive understanding of the current ADHD landscape.
Key Themes Explored
The conference highlighted several interconnected themes in ADHD research and care:
- Innovative Treatment Strategies and Current Research Trends: Sessions explored emerging treatments, including the effects of sex hormones and the potential of psychedelics for ADHD. Presentations highlighted research on neurodevelopmental aspects, genetic influences, and environmental factors, providing insights for refining diagnostics and treatment protocols. Discussions on artificial intelligence emphasised its role in enhancing clinical decision-making and informing inclusive policies while addressing ethical considerations in ADHD assessments.
- Community and Education Engagement: The importance of grassroots initiatives was underscored, highlighting successful community programs that support individuals with ADHD and foster a sense of belonging. Presentations also explored the effectiveness of various accommodations in educational settings, advocating for tailored approaches to support diverse needs.
- Lived Experience and Policy Advocacy: The conference underscored the essential role of integrating lived experiences into ADHD care, showcasing how personal stories can inform clinical practices and influence policy decisions. Discussions also highlighted the ongoing challenges in ADHD care, including stigma and access to services, calling for continued advocacy and research to ensure individuals receive the support they need.
Presentation at the Conference: Early Childhood Development, ADHD, and Community Partnerships
Our team from Hong Kong was honoured to contribute to the conference with a keynote presentation by Professor Patrick Ip. He shared insights from a Hong Kong perspective on the critical links between early executive function development and the emergence of ADHD in young children. The presentation highlighted the significance of timely interventions and effective community partnership models, drawing on our experiences in Hong Kong. This includes multi-component parenting initiatives and school-based sports mentorship programs that support children with ADHD and other special educational needs in low-resource districts, enhancing their executive functioning, behaviour, and overall development.
Lessons Learned and Future Directions
A key takeaway from the conference was the emphasis on collaboration across disciplines. Participants recognised that addressing ADHD requires a collective effort, and by sharing best practices and resources, we can create a more effective support system for individuals with ADHD.
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