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. 

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

Karen Nolan A tribute for Kyrk & Maria - My babies

I’m walking for my family who have experienced the challenges faced by myself throughout their lives where my issues have affected them but allowed them to shine in the face of adversity! I am very proud of them both & how they have shown their caring natures to others! 🥰❤️

Kaz

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

Lynette Shaw A tribute for Daniel Luke Shaw

In Loving Memory of Daniel Luke Shaw who sadly committed suicide on 9th March 2024.

Jaqueline Delaney

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

Nicole

I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone. Remember to breathe and believe! Together we CAN do this

Tamara A tribute for My girls daddy

I’m running in solidarity this October in memory of a very special person we lost in April at only 49 years young. This one's for you daddy 🫶🏼 and for all Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. Just know you are not alone.

Tracy

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

Eva

I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone. My brother suicided over 29 years ago, age 45. So I’m also walking for him.

Eliza Kelly

I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. If we're all alone, then we're all together in that too.