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

  • Anonymous just donated $13.23
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  • Russell Edwards just donated $100.00
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  • Brendan GRAINGER just donated $269.13
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  • Jo Partridge just donated $28.81
  • Richie Hewitt just donated $100.00

It is Mental Health Month!

Join us to walk, run or move this month 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.

We've conquered
1,676,447km
for mental health!
That’s 2 whole laps around Australia!

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

Tiana Assini

July 19th I attempted suicide and luckily wasn’t successful. I get more than anyone what it means to feel like there is nothing to live for. So I’m walking and running in solidarity and support to this amazing foundation to help people like me. This photo is actually me the day I came out of hospital and had my first proper coffee. Meant more than just the coffee ❤️

Rebecca

I am walking in solidarity this October for Australian’s affected by mental health, young and old. Mental health is something that a lot of people don’t understand. So much more awareness is needed. I have been personally affected by this as my daughter has had to battle mental health challenges, including those horrible thoughts. We were so very fortunate that she lives to tell her story but came very close to the end, unlike 2 precious souls we know who were taken by angels way too early. We are walking to heal as every mind matters and can be stronger together.

Janina Lear A tribute for Jonah Lear

I’m walking in memory of my beautiful son Jonah who left the physical world on the 28th of November 2022. Our hearts are forever broken and our lives will never be the same. We have to start talking about mental health and supporting those around us so no one has to go through life living with this mental pain and no family has to deal with the aftermath if their loved one cant fight the demons.

Lucy Finney

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

Lauren Adams

I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone and worthy of happiness & peace of mind.

Matisse A tribute for My sisters, family, friends, myself and to those that have been lost to mental health 🩷

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

Samantha

I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone. Everyone has been in a dark place at one time or another, all you need is that tiny light to hold onto and pull yourself from the darkness with support from family or friends or even your counsellor. It could even be an animal, just hold on and life is worth living

Alicia

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

Claire Cohen

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