Step 4 Epilepsy - virtual challenge

Cause

Step 4 Epilepsy is a nationwide walking and fundraising challenge supporting Epilepsy Action Australia. It invites people across Australia to move every day while building greater understanding of epilepsy and raising funds for services, education and research. The challenge is based on an important figure: one in 26 Australians will be diagnosed with epilepsy during their lifetime. By walking for 26 minutes each day, participants turn that statistic into a visible, positive action and help bring attention to a condition that affects people of all ages and backgrounds.

Funds raised through the challenge help Epilepsy Action Australia continue supporting people living with epilepsy, their families and carers. They also contribute to community education, awareness initiatives, improved resources, technology and research. Every participant can help, whether they are able to fundraise, share the challenge with others or simply start conversations about epilepsy. The aim is not only to raise money, but also to make the experiences of people living with epilepsy better understood and less invisible.

What to Expect

The virtual challenge runs throughout September 2026 and can be completed anywhere in Australia. Participants aim to walk for 26 minutes each day during the month. There is no fixed course, venue or start time, so each person can choose a routine that suits their schedule and ability. A daily walk might take place around a neighbourhood, at a local park, on a treadmill, during a lunch break or as part of an existing commute.

You can take part by yourself or create a team with friends, family members or colleagues. Walking with others can provide extra motivation, while solo participants can enjoy the flexibility of completing their 26 minutes whenever it works for them. The challenge is designed to encourage consistent movement and a healthy daily habit rather than competition based on speed or distance. Participants will receive tips, motivation and inspiration during the month to help them stay involved.

Fundraising is encouraged but participation is free. After registering, participants can create an individual fundraising page or join or create a team. Sharing progress and explaining why the cause matters can help raise awareness even when friends and family are unable to donate. Every walk, conversation and contribution adds to a national community stepping up for people affected by epilepsy.

How to Participate

1. Use the registration link on this event page to sign up for the free challenge.
2. Choose whether to participate as an individual, create a team or join an existing team.
3. Set a personal fundraising goal and prepare your online fundraising page if you would like to raise funds.
4. Plan a safe and practical time to walk for 26 minutes each day from 1 to 30 September.
5. Complete the challenge in your own location and at a pace that suits you.
6. Invite others to support your efforts, join your team or learn more about epilepsy.

Participants can adapt their daily walk to their circumstances. The focus is on taking part consistently and safely, not covering a required distance. If 26 continuous minutes is not suitable, participants may choose a comfortable approach that reflects their needs. Anyone with health, mobility or accessibility concerns should use their own judgement and seek appropriate professional advice before starting a new activity routine.

Cost

Registration for Step 4 Epilepsy is free. There is no required entry fee or minimum donation stated for taking part. Participants are encouraged to fundraise for Epilepsy Action Australia, but they can set a goal that feels achievable and ask their personal networks for support. Any optional donation is separate from the free registration.

Milestone Rewards

The main personal milestone is completing 26 minutes of walking each day throughout September. Participants can celebrate building a consistent routine, completing a full week, reaching the halfway point and finishing the month. Teams may also create their own shared goals, such as maintaining daily participation or reaching a collective fundraising target.

The campaign also includes a fundraising reward. The eligible individual who raises the highest amount through their official online fundraising page by the campaign deadline is set to receive a $500 Rebel Sport gift card, subject to the organiser's competition terms and eligibility requirements. This reward recognises fundraising effort, while the wider achievement remains the awareness and support created by everyone who takes part. Whether you walk solo or with a team, every day completed helps turn awareness into action for Australians living with epilepsy.