Astrid just donated $56- Kerrie just donated $10
- Kelly just donated $12
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- Danni just donated $12
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- Jessica just donated $6
- Hannah just donated $24
- Bonnie just donated $12
- Leon just donated $56
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.
How It Works
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.
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.
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."
Register now and join Paul in One Foot Forward 2026.
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
Rob Reitano
Joel Lagana
I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. There was a time where I felt that I was waiting around for not much better than where I was, but want everyone to know that it doesn't always feel that way and things can improve. All it takes is to put one foot forward. It doesn't need to be your best one, but at least its a step in the right direction.
Lisa A tribute for All
I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone.
Beau
I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone.
Veronica
I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone.
Leanne
I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone. I have personally worked with my own mental health struggles, my husband had recently been through his own journey and we each have lost dear friends to their mental health demons. I walk for ME, for my hubby and for all those going through this. You are not alone xxx
Adele Pate A tribute for Shayne Ashley Powell-Pate
After losing my stepson in 2023 through mental health. I was stuck and found black dog. This year I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone. For the past three years, I have committed myself to walking 50km for mental health in support of the Black Dog Institute One foot foward challenge. This journey has been more than just a physical challenge and mentally challenging one – it’s been a way to stand up, raise awareness, and contribute to vital mental health research and support services that help so many Australians. Each year, I’ve laced up my shoes, pushed through the kilometres, and walked with purpose – knowing that every step makes a difference. Doing this three years in a row has reminded me how important it is to keep the conversation around mental health open, to show support, and to take action for those who may be struggling. It's not weak to speak. We're in this together
Cath Fidock
I am walking to raise awareness in how common mental illness is and to help raise money for the Black Dog Institute. I am walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone.
Bel
I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. This is something that is close to my heart. I have lived with this as well as have family and friends going through it. We need to know it is OK to not be OK. For all that are close to me. Please remember my door is always opened and my phone always on. I have lost to many friends to this. Remember you are not alone.
It's been 20 years since that dark dark day. I still wonder whether I was serious or not and I guess I lived to have that doubt. In 2024 in Australia we should not have beautiful little 12 year old girls committing suicide...we should not have anyone even thinking about suicide.