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

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

Sarah

I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. I am also walking for my brother who suffers with mental illness and raise awareness it’s okay to not be okay!

Hannah

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

Courtney

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

Kylie

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

Jamie A tribute for Nick Ringe

I’m walking in solidarity this October for my older brother, Nick.

Brianna G

You are never alone. Speak up and speak out for those who can't. Believe in yourself, your life is worth living.

Lana & Jacko

I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone. Over the years we have unfortunately lost some bloody good people to mental illness and having been through some ourselves me and know of people still dealing with some things, so me and the hubby decided to do something to help! Mental illness was once upon a time hushed but we are marching this year loud and outspoken for those that sit in silence. WE SEE YOU❤️ please help this great cause by sharing or donating 🫶 cheers legends❤️

Michael Ward A tribute for For all of those, including myself, who have, are or will experience challenges with mental health, know you are not alone! It will not resolve with one conversation, but it is the first step in helping relieve stress, asking for help, being support and or just having someone let you know you are valued and loved!! It takes sheer strength to speak, talk and or ask for support and many we don’t even think of would be there for you and I!!

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

Tammy Mason A tribute for All those who don’t have enough support, face most days alone and simply keep going 🥰

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