Ford Australia and the mental health charity Drive Against Depression (DAD) have formalized a year-long partnership, solidifying the automaker’s role as the charity’s official “Event Vehicle Partner.” This collaboration will see Ford providing vehicles to support DAD’s events across major Australian cities – Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Adelaide – ensuring logistical support for their community outreach.
A Shared Commitment to Mental Wellness
The partnership is rooted in a mutual objective: improving mental health outcomes through accessible support and community engagement. According to Michael Hanley, DAD’s director of marketing, the extended commitment from Ford will ensure a consistently high-quality event experience for those who rely on the charity’s programs.
Ben Nightingale of Ford Australia emphasized that supporting DAD aligns with the company’s values, highlighting their dedication to helping communities connect and openly discuss mental health challenges. This collaboration demonstrates how businesses can directly contribute to social wellbeing beyond traditional corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Events and Community Reach
DAD’s events calendar is currently focused on 2026, with the next confirmed event being the Melbourne Summer Drive Day on February 1, 2026. In 2025, the charity hosted 10 events across four major cities, building a network of mental health practitioners and advocates.
Notably, the CarExpert team has a long-standing relationship with DAD. Current Marketplace Editor James Wong is an ambassador for the charity, while founder Paul Maric previously held the same role. This level of internal support signals the broader industry’s recognition of the importance of mental health awareness.
By combining automotive logistics with grassroots mental health support, this partnership exemplifies a practical approach to community wellbeing. It also underscores the growing trend of businesses integrating social impact into their operational models.
For those interested in learning more or supporting Drive Against Depression, visit their official website here.
