Australians have driven Soldier On’s March On Challenge past an extraordinary $3 million, marking a record-breaking moment in support of veteran mental health – with four days still remaining until the annual fundraising challenge ends on 31 March.
From city streets to regional communities, more than 12,000 Australians have stepped up throughout March to walk, run or move 96 kilometres – the symbolic length of the Kokoda Track – in a powerful show of support for veterans and their families.
The result reflects a growing national commitment to taking action on veteran mental health.
Soldier On CEO Paul Singer said the milestone highlights the strength of community support across the country.
‘To reach $3 million with four days still to go is an incredible result,’ he said.
‘It shows Australians are not just aware of the challenges facing veterans – they are choosing to be part of the solution.’
The challenge comes at a time when veteran mental health remains a critical national issue.
In Australia, suicide remains a leading cause of death among younger veterans. Suicide accounts for 42 per cent of deaths among ex-serving males aged under 30. Ex-serving men are 112 per cent more likely to die by suicide than other Australian men, while ex-serving women are 107 per cent more likely than other Australian women.
Every dollar raised will directly go to support the services that Soldier On provides to our current and ex-service personnel and their families to help prevent veteran suicide.
Mr Singer said March On is about more than fundraising – it is about connection, awareness and collective action.
‘Every kilometre completed and every dollar raised sends a clear message to veterans and their families – you are not alone,’ he said.
‘We’ve seen Australians right across the country step up in an extraordinary way, and there is still time to go even further.’
As the annual challenge draws to a close, Australians can still support a participant and make a donation.
‘There is real momentum behind March On right now,’ Mr Singer said. ‘If you’ve been thinking about getting involved, now is the time.’
Donate to support participants, at marchonchallenge.org.au.
Statistics referenced are sourced from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.
To find out more about the vital services that Soldier On provides, please visit soldieron.org.au/how-we-help/.
