NSW Jewish Board of Deputies celebrates eight decades of strength and service
The NSW Jewish Board of Deputies celebrated eight decades of resilience and service with a major function at Parliament House on the evening of October 28.
The event brought together parliamentarians, diplomats, police, interfaith leaders, and community representatives to honour the Board’s enduring role as the voice of Jewish life in New South Wales, particularly vital in the current social climate.
Board Chief Executive Officer Michele Goldman hosted the evening. In her opening remarks, she reflected on the organisation’s breadth of work and the dedication of those who had shaped it over generations. “When I first encountered the Jewish Board of Deputies, I was struck by the passion and commitment of its people,” she said. “Tonight is about honouring the giants who have stood up for our community and built the foundations of the life we share today.”
Board president David Ossip delivered a sweeping address, tracing the history of the Australian Jewish community. He detailed the organisation’s founding through to its present-day vital role in advocacy on antisemitism, multicultural harmony, and social justice. “In Jewish tradition, 80 represents gevurah, not strength of muscle but of endurance and persistence,” he asserted. “Turning 80 is a time for gratitude, reflection and wisdom borne of experience.”
Ossip described how the Board emerged during the final months of World War II when Australian Jewry, still small and insecure, resolved to unite and speak with one voice. “Those who formed this organisation understood that Jewish life in New South Wales needed a central representative institution, one that would speak with dignity, act with unity, and advance not only Jewish interests but a more cohesive society for all.”
David Ossip
He reflected on the Jewish contribution to the state’s history, from Jewish First Fleet convicts Esther Abrahams and early parliamentarian Saul Samuel to the renowned Sir John Monash and Sir Isaac Isaacs, noting that while Jews had long shaped Australia’s civic life, in 1944 “our community was still uncertain of its place, and casual antisemitism was part of day-to-day life.” The Board’s founders, he said, answered that insecurity with collective strength.
Ossip emphasised the Board’s record of advocacy in securing government funding for security, fighting racism, and defending social inclusion. “We have stood shoulder to shoulder with other communities in upholding the principle that Australia’s diversity is its strength,” he said. The organisation, he added, has long been at the forefront of universal causes, from Indigenous recognition to equality for LGBTQ+ groups, while remaining unflinching in its support for Israel and its right to exist in peace.
Turning to current challenges, Ossip said the Board’s role had “never been more critical” amid rising antisemitism and social tension following October 7. “It has been a difficult few years, but this organisation, more than ever, has its hands open and its arms outstretched to repair frayed social cohesion.” He concluded, “Eighty years of gevurah, strength of purpose, unity, and faith. May the next 80 be marked by the same moral strength to stand tall as Jews, as Australians, and as guardians of justice and peace.”
Yasmin Catley
NSW Police Minister Yasmin Catley spoke on behalf of Premier Chris Minns, commending the Board’s enduring partnership with government. “For eight decades, the Jewish Board of Deputies has been a powerful and important voice for the Jewish community,” she said. “You have built strong relationships across diverse communities and been unwavering in your commitment to social inclusion and interfaith dialogue.”
Although unable to attend, Premier Chris Minns sent a written message to the event. “For eight decades, this unique representative body has served as a powerful voice of our state’s diverse Jewish community. JBD’s longstanding commitment to combating antisemitism and prejudice has helped foster a more inclusive society in our State.”
Deputy Opposition Leader Natalie Ward MLC addressed the gathering on behalf of Opposition Leader Mark Speakman. “For eight decades the Board has exemplified the highest ideals of civic leadership, advocating for justice, safeguarding memory and strengthening multicultural harmony across our state,” she declared.
Natalie Ward MLC
Ward praised the Board’s friendship during difficult periods, including the pandemic and the current surge in antisemitism. “Please know that both government and opposition stand with our Jewish community, vocally in Parliament and in our communities. Through the darkest times and in moments of celebration, that support is unwavering.”
Goldman returned to close the evening, thanking political leaders, police, and interfaith partners for their “unwavering support during two of the most challenging years Australian Jews have faced.” She acknowledged the volunteers, deputies, and staff who form the “village” that sustains the organisation.
The night concluded with a powerful video featuring messages from past presidents, deputies, and community figures who paid tribute to the Board’s legacy of courage and unity. After 80 years, the Board’s voice remains steady and vital, a reminder of the strength that comes from endurance, solidarity, and purpose.
