A national initiative harnessing the power of elite athletes to support mental health will reach even more young Australians in 2026 as the AIS Mental Fitness Program expands into schools and sporting clubs across the country.
Delivered by the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) in partnership with Black Dog Institute, the program connects current and former high-performance athletes with secondary school students to build resilience and strengthen mental wellbeing.
Since its launch, the AIS Mental Fitness Program has reached more than 90,000 students across 458 schools and sporting organisations, delivering over 800 presentations nationwide.
In 2026, athlete ambassadors will deliver up to six sessions across terms two and three, providing deeper and more consistent engagement with young people. The program - which will also expand to Tasmania for the first time - equips students with practical, evidence-based strategies to stay mentally fit.
AIS Director Matti Clements said the program continues to evolve to maximise its impact.
"Elite athletes are uniquely placed to connect with young people through their lived experience, helping break down stigma and encouraging open conversations about mental health," Clements said.
"By renewing the program in 2026, we're creating more opportunities for students to build the skills and confidence they need to manage challenges and maintain their wellbeing."
The 2026 cohort features a diverse group of athletes from around Australia, spanning Olympic, Paralympic and Commonwealth Games pathways across a wide range of sports.
Several ambassadors return this year - including Anastasia Typou, Zane Branco, Ameera Christina Lee, Clay Mason Stephens and Samantha Gaul - highlighting the strong connections formed with students and the program's lasting impact.
Evaluation data highlights the program's impact, with 85 per cent of students indicating they are likely to implement strategies learned during the sessions.
Student feedback reflected the program's real-world value:
"The presentation was so informative and interactive that it really opened up new perspectives on tough subjects… it gave me another way to help my friends."
"This workshop was very engaging, and the presenter was open about her own experiences to enrich ours."
"One thing I'll remember is that no matter what, it's always okay to ask for help."
Research shows that most mental health challenges emerge before the age of 25, so early engagement remains critical - ensuring young people are equipped with the tools and knowledge to support their mental wellbeing.
Strong demand is already building for 2026, with 36 schools registered, representing more than 7,000 students and a target of reaching 75 schools through 150 presentations over the year.
Schools can book a free session via the AIS website here: Mental Fitness Program | Australian Institute of Sport
2026 AIS Mental Fitness Program ambassadors:
NSW Ameera Christina Lee, Archery Australia, Sydney Clay Mason Stephens, Gymnastics Australia, Sydney Emily Lamb, Squash Australia, Sydney Isabella Scammell, Rowing Australia, Sydney Marina Carrier, Modern Pentathlon Australia, Sydney Zane Branco, Australian Athletics, Newport
QLD Cooper Whitestyles, Bowls Australia, Mackay Ellie Beer, Australian Athletics, Gold Coast Hannah Slyth, Squash Australia, Gold Coast Lakeisha Patterson, Swimming Australia, Sunshine Coast Mitchell Nicholson, Hockey Australia, Brisbane Nathan Jason, Australian Athletics, Sunshine Coast
VIC Alexandra Viney, Dual Paralympian, Geelong Anastasia Typou, Australian Taekwondo, Melbourne Gabriella Blewitt, Australian Taekwondo, Melbourne Olivia Cartwright, Bowls Australia, Bendigo Tara Hinchliffe, Netball Australia, Melbourne
SA Darren Hicks, AusCycling, Adelaide Luke Ryan, Volleyball Australia, Adelaide Odette Lynch, AusCycling, Adelaide
WA Erin Mitchell, Lacrosse Australia, Perth Suzin Wells, Equestrian Australia, Boyanup
ACT Nick Dunlop, Rowing Australia, Canberra Samantha Gaul, Snow Australia, Canberra
TAS Taylor Brooks, Hockey Australia, Howrah
