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. 

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

Lauren

When I can, I’m riding my bike to work in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone.

Belinda Jones A tribute for Jason Jones

My brother sadly took his life 28 years ago. Not many days go by that I don’t think of you and what you’d be doing, if you were still here with us. I know you would’ve been a wonderful, fun loving Uncle to all your nephews & nieces. Missing you always 🩵 In memory of you J, I’m walking in solidarity this October for you and all Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone.

Gandiva

Join me on the Northern Rivers Rail Trail from Crabbes Creek to Murwillumbah on Monday 9 October 2023. And. Northern Rivers Rail Trail from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek on Wednesday 11 October 2023. Thanks again for your support.

Aliera leane

I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone. As someone who has been suffering from depression for most my life i am happy to be part of an awsome challenge so that i can help raise money and awareness for an cause that is so close to my heart. To know that ypu are not alone that you are one in many. Always here for those that need help.

Kate

I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. I will always make time for anyone.

Lynn Carpenter A tribute for Lives lost too soon.

I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone. Seek out your valued friends, the folks around you that drop everything and turn up on your doorstep when you need them. To all that matter, in tribute and remembrance may those left behind find comfort in the quiet spaces of their hearts and memories.

Bianca A tribute for Everyone in my group Bianca moroney creations who suffer mental illness

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

Kashia

For my son Harley, keep shining bright kiddo. Never dim your light to appease others. You matter!!!

Aly A tribute for Bec

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