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

Renee Puha

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

Annie stevens A tribute for My big brother Johnny

I'm walking to honor the memory of my big brother Johnny. I lost a part of me, when I lost you. We survived so much together. You protected me, cared for me, and never left my side. We were a team. Two damaged peas in a pod. It was supposed to be us forever and ever remember? We pinky promised. I know your still with me, so I want to make you proud and turn our tragedy into awareness. So that maybe, we can save someone else's Johnny 💜

Sonia A tribute for Paulie

I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone. Seraph and I have both struggled with severe treatment resistant depression. We lost her Dad 16 years ago this November and know how important these services are personally. Seraph is currently studying Cert IV in Mental Health and I am looking at using this fundraiser as motivation to get more active to help with my own depression.

FRANCIS LARKIN A tribute for Theresa My loving older sister

I'm walking for all Australians that have been affected by mental health issues and suicide. In loving memory of my sister, you may not be here physically. but you will always be in my thoughts and my heart. You are dearly missed.

Brooke A tribute for Gordon Baker

In loving memory of my Grandfather- choosing peace over your pain. A man of few words in life, how I wish you had used your voice to express yourself when you were at your lowest. I walk for you and every person living with or affected by mental health issues and/or suicide. One foot forward 💗

Jo

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

Cass Powell

I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone. Thousands of people struggle silently with their Mental Health everyday. Sadly we don't talk about it, for fear of being labelled. Let's talk about it more & support those in need.

Shelley A

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

Frankie Jasper

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