Mullets for Mental Health: bold cuts, big conversations

Registrations are now open for Black Dog Institute’s Mullets for Mental Health, with Australians encouraged to turn their mullet into something meaningful this April.

From the footy field to the festival grounds and even local supermarkets across the country, the mullet has cemented itself as an unmistakable part of Australian culture. Bold and impossible to ignore, it’s more than a haircut; it’s a conversation starter.

This April, Australians are encouraged to grow or shape a mullet to spark conversations about mental health and raise funds for Black Dog Institute’s life-changing mental health research. One in five Australians experience a mental illness each year, yet more than half do not seek professional support.

‘We know that too many Australians miss out on support because of cost and other barriers,’ said Black Dog Institute Director of Fundraising, Laura Edwards. ‘For young people, affordability is one of the biggest challenges. They are twice as likely as older adults to struggle with the cost of care.

‘The funds raised through Mullets for Mental Health help us to develop practical, evidence-based solutions that expand access and ensure support reaches people when they need it most. We achieve this through digital programs that support people in real time, school-based initiatives that equip teachers to guide students, and research that strengthens suicide prevention and early intervention efforts.’

Life-changing conversations

‘Taking part in Mullets for Mental Health is also a way to get your mates talking, show up for each other, and spark a potentially life-changing conversation,’ said Ms Edwards. ‘So, this April, stand out from the crowd, and show you’re all ears for mental health’.

Funds raised through the campaign support research into early detection, prevention and treatment of mental health disorders, including self-harm reduction and suicide prevention. They also contribute to the development of digital tools, education programs and services that put evidence-based support into the hands of people who need it most.

Through advocacy, Black Dog Institute shares world-leading research and real-world insights with policymakers to shape decisions that affect millions of Australians and build a future where everyone can access timely, affordable mental health care.

Since its launch in 2020, over 36,000 participants have taken part in Mullets for Mental Health, raising funds to support critical research, education programs, and suicide prevention initiatives nationwide.

Australians can register now at mulletsformentalhealth.org.au to take part this April.