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

  • Astrid just donated $56
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  • 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. 

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

Niven Williams

It’s better to light a candle than to curse the darkness. It’s up to all of us to light the path to a mentally healthy and suicide-safe Australia.

Julie Smith

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

Chris Watson

I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. You are not alone. Mental illness and suicide has affected me and my family very closely. Never be afraid to get help.

Petra

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

Angela

I’m walking in solidarity this October for Australians affected by mental illness and suicide. I am here. I will listen. Don’t ever feel afraid to seek help.

jessica miles

It's OK to not be OK, have your moment cry, scream, sit in silence and then start to rebuild and grow! it's ok to take your time just don't unpack and live there! Find the Glimmer in everyday! a small bit of light on your dark days can be the tiny bit of hope you need to take that next step.

Skye

Hey all! I am so excited to share with you that I have been participating in this walk for the past four years to raise awareness for mental health. I was able to raise $246.45 and walked 105.4km in 2021, and I'm hoping to exceed that this year. It would mean the world if you helped me out by making a donation of any amount, big or small. Your contribution would make a real difference, and I would be very grateful for your kindness and support! GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!

Tara wilds

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

Chris Whiticker

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