About the 8th National Multicultural Mental Health Month 2026

The Mental Health Foundation Australia (MHFA) is proud to announce the 8th National Multicultural Mental Health Month which is set to run from 1st October to 31st October. This month-long campaign celebrates the rich cultural diversity of Australia while promoting mental health awareness and support within multicultural communities.  The campaign encourages individuals, families, workplaces and communities to have open conversations, reduce stigma and understand that mental health experiences can be shaped by culture, relationships, life circumstances and access to support.


The 2026 campaign places women’s wellbeing at the centre, recognising that every woman’s experience is different.


Our focus is on creating safe, inclusive and culturally responsive spaces where women can feel heard, respected and supported, regardless of their age, cultural background or circumstances.

Theme: Supporting Women's Mental Health Everyday

This year’s theme, “Supporting Women’s Mental Health Every Day” shines a light on women’s mental health and the many experiences that can shape wellbeing across different ages, cultures, communities and stages of life.


From caregiving and financial pressures to workplace challenges, relationships, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause, women can experience a range of pressures that affect their wellbeing. At the same time, women bring enormous strength, resilience, connection and wisdom to their families and communities.


This October, we are creating opportunities to learn, connect, share experiences and access support because supporting women’s wellbeing should not be limited to one month. It matters every day.

Why Women’s Mental Health Matters?

Every woman carries a story. She may be caring for her children or an ageing parent, navigating work and relationships, starting a new chapter in life, or simply trying to find a little more space for herself. Sometimes, the weight of these experiences can become difficult to carry alone.


According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 1 in 4 women aged 16–85 experienced a mental health concern in the 12 months to 2020–2022, while 44% experienced one at some point in their lifetime. Among young women aged 16–24, almost half experienced a mental health challenge in the past year.


At the Mental Health Foundation Australia, we believe every woman deserves to feel heard, supported and understood. Sometimes, having a safe space to talk can be the first step towards finding hope, connection and a way forward.

More than 60% of the people we support are women.

Women’s wellbeing can be shaped by many experiences, including caregiving, financial and workplace pressures, relationships, cultural expectations and major life transitions such as pregnancy, parenthood and menopause. Across Australia’s multicultural communities, women may also experience barriers to seeking support, including stigma, isolation, language and cultural expectations.


At Mental Health Foundation Australia, we believe cost or circumstance should never be a barrier to support. 


More than 60% of the people we support are women, with affordable counselling through our Wellness Hub, free peer support groups and mental health workplace training and webinars helping women find connection, understanding and support when they need it.