International Purple Day, celebrated globally on 26 March, is dedicated to increasing awareness and dispelling myths about epilepsy by inviting people to wear purple, host a purple-themed activity, or a purple-themed event.
Purple Day is about using purple – however you choose – to shine a light on epilepsy. This year, Epilepsy Action Australia is calling on all Australians to Show Up, Team Up and Purple Up 4 Epilepsy throughout the month of March.
Across Australia, an estimated 266,000 people are living with epilepsy. They are our families, friends, colleagues, students, carers and community members — people whose experiences are too often unseen or misunderstood.
Show up, team up
Epilepsy Action Australia says 2026 is the year to make a difference, by amplifying voices, dismantling stigma, educating communities, and building understanding – a year to turn awareness into action.
‘The people behind the numbers are what drives our purpose and inspires us to make this year our most impactful yet,’ said Carol Ireland, CEO & Managing Director, Epilepsy Action Australia.
‘Every action sparks conversations, creates awareness and raises vital funds to support epilepsy services.’
Supporting this year’s campaign are a group of inspirational ambassadors lending their voices, stories and leadership to help raise national awareness and inspire communities to get involved:
- Lachlan Gillespie, The Purple Wiggle.
- Dr Kaitlyn Parratt, Neurologist and Epileptologist.
- Nikyah Hutchings, First Nations and Epilepsy advocate.
Get involved
You can Purple Up on International Purple Day (March 26) or any day in March by wearing purple, decorating your space, or hosting a purple-themed event.
Epilepsy Action Australia has a suite of free resources to inspire, spread awareness and support fundraising efforts.
Find out more here: https://purpleup4epilepsyaction.gofundraise.com.au/.
