ONE FOOT FORWARD

Join the walk for mental health

Walk, run or move this October during Mental Health Month for the 1 in 5 Australians who experience a mental illness each year.

Register for FREE now

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October 2026 is Mental Health Month

Join us to walk, run or move in solidarity for the 1 in 5 Australians who experience a mental illness each year.

Together, we can show them they are not alone. 

Register now

How It Works

1. Sign Up

Sign up (for FREE) and join our community to walk in solidarity throughout October.

2. Share

Share your page and raise funds to help Australians impacted by mental illness.

3. Walk

Walk, run or move and log your kilometres throughout October for Mental Health Month.

Mental Health stats in Australia

1 in 5

Australians experience a mental illness each year.

1 in 6

Australians experience an anxiety disorder each year.

1 in 7

children and adolescents experience a mental illness each year.

For the first time in history, young Australians are experiencing higher rates of depression and anxiety than any generation before them. 

By​ supporting One Foot Forward, you're helping Black Dog Institute put ground-breaking new mental health treatment, education and digital services into the hands of the people who need them most, helping to create better mental health for all.

Let's show people with mental illness that we're in this together. 

Sign up now for One Foot Forward 2026

Join our community to create better mental health for all Australians.

Register now

Julia has taken part in One Foot Forward every year since 2021:

"I grew up in a country town where mental health was never really talked about. It wasn't until I was older that I realised the anxiety I felt as a child wasn't just nerves, and that I wasn't the only person experiencing it.

I first joined One Foot Forward after a number of youth suicides in my local community. I wanted to do something to raise awareness and support mental health, but I soon realised I was doing it for myself too.

“My mind and body thrive on it”

Walking has become a huge part of my wellbeing. Being outdoors, connecting with my community and taking time away from screens helps me stay mindful and present. Just as importantly, One Foot Forward helps break down the stigma around mental health and reminds people that they're not alone.

To anyone thinking about taking part in One Foot Forward, I say: do it! Being outside and moving your body can do wonders for your mental health. The community will have your back, and together we'll take it one step at a time."

Your rewards

Get your exclusive T-shirt and fundraising pack!

When you raise $95, you'll earn a One Foot Forward T-shirt to wear throughout your challenge and an exclusive fundraising pack to help you with your challenge.

Your Impact

Advocacy

Sharing world-leading research and real-world stories with policymakers to shape decisions that affect millions, and build a future where all Australians can access timely, affordable care.

Education & Services

Equip teachers with practical tools and professional support to provide safety and guidance to teenagers in the years when they are most vulnerable to forming mental health conditions. 

Youth Mental Health

Teaching children with anxiety or depressive symptoms how to create healthier ways of thinking.

Suicide Prevention

Translate research into a digital program which can support people with suicidal thoughts to seek help when they need it most.

Solidarity Wall

Cassey Nye

I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone. I’m walking for my cuz Quinton ❤️ It’s okay to not be okay speak up don’t do it alone always someone there to talk to.

Fiona A tribute for Kalon Holzer

I am walking to honor my nephew Kalon who recently lost his fight with mental health. He was such a bright, shining person and wherever he is now I hope he is still shining as bright as he did in life. I am walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone. You are so so so loved.

Bk

I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone. Looking back over my life - I have a feeling the 'Black Dog' has often walked beside me. I attempted to take my life when I was about 22 - but the universe had other plans. As you get older your perspective about a lot of things change - especially when you finally take ownership of your own journey. And (when) you can look at memories and really see when bad times turned out to be growth times and you can look to the here and now and say to yourself "You know what? I am doing ok" - then you will be more confident putting one foot forward into a brighter tomorrow.

Isobel Elliott

Sometimes, when we are close to the finish line we feel depleted, and as if we wish to give up. Know that you are not alone, this is a common feeling amongst those affected by mental health issues. Keep marching forward! We've got this in the bag!

Lara

I’m running 200kms in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. Every kilometre is a step for hope, awareness, and change. You are not alone.

Anisha

🌟 We’re walking together this October, one step at a time! 🌟 To everyone taking part in the One Foot Forward challenge: Remember, every step you take is a step toward better mental health for all. Whether you’re walking, running, or rolling, you’re making a difference for the 1 in 5 Australians who experience mental illness each year. 💙 Let’s keep moving forward, knowing that we’re not alone on this journey. Together, we’re stronger, and every kilometer we cover brings us closer to a future where no one has to face mental health challenges on their own. Keep going! We’ve got this! 💪

Landon Germanotta-Mills

I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone

Emmanuel Evangelakos A tribute for Kev

My dear friend, I miss your smile, I miss your laugh and I miss you.

Chloe

I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone.