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

Angela Varley

I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. This year my life was personally affected by someone close to me and their battle with mental health. Through perseverance and lots of support they have managed to get through those dark times and see some light through the tunnel. Although mental illness is a constant battle we take each day as it comes. The days that are a struggle to get through and the ones that are just that but easier. With support from the Bkack Dog Institute the focus on mental health awareness is becoming stronger than ever. Through their research, clinical services, education and training and their digital tools and resources they create hope and improving the outcome of those who experience mental illness. YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!!!!!!

Julia

I’m walking in memory of family and friends who succumbed to the illness, in solidarity for others affected by mental illness and suicide, and for myself, as a long-time sufferer and survivor.

Maree-Rose

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

Shazzie

I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone. It's a constant struggle to keep the black dog away but knowing that there are places like the black dog Institute to provide awareness and support is worth every step...

Tracey Eden A tribute for Someone Close

I’m walking in Solidarity in October to raise money. In the memory of someone close. Hoping that raising money for Mental Health will make and impact and be able to change outcomes in people’s lives that are suffering from Mental Health.

Sarah Hicks

To anyone who is struggling today: you are seen, you are valued, and you are never alone. Mental illness does not define you, and there is hope, even when it doesn't feel like it. I'm walking in solidarity with you and with everyone whose lives have been touched by mental illness. Together, we can break the stigma, spread compassion, and create hope.

Greta S.F.

I’m walking at least 350km this October for the #OneFootForward initiative, standing in solidarity with Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. Every step I take is a reminder that none of us are alone in this journey. Together, we can make a difference, one step at a time.

Georgia

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

William Watson

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