Jeremy Leibler Exits ZFA After Eight-Year Tenure

Jeremy Leibler is stepping down as president of the Zionist Federation of Australia after serving in the role for eight years. He announced his departure at a formal reception held on Wednesday at the President's Residence in Jerusalem. The event was hosted by President Isaac Herzog to honor Leibler's final period of leadership.

Former Israeli ambassador to Australia Amir Maimon spoke to the challenges faced by the Jewish community during Leibler's tenure. Maimon referenced the surge in antisemitism following the events of October 7. He described the diplomatic environment as difficult, noting that Canberra was very cold, a comment he clarified was not solely about the weather. Maimon credited Leibler with managing relations with Australian authorities, which paved the way for Herzog's state visit to Australia in February of this year.

Doron Almog, chairman of the Jewish Agency, praised Leibler for his steadfastness during a volatile period. Almog quoted Leibler saying, "We're not going anywhere. We're here to stay." This sentiment was echoed by other speakers who described Leibler as a proud Australian Jew who maintained a strong stance for the community.

Michal Herzog, the president's wife, attended the gathering and recalled her first visit to Australia in November 1986. She traveled with her in-laws for the historic state visit of Chaim Herzog, who was the first Israeli president to travel that far south. Michal Herzog stated that the two nations feel especially close to the Australian Jewish community during times of crisis.

President Isaac Herzog commended Leibler for his direct communication style. He noted that Leibler was very clear about the necessity of bringing him to Australia for the February visit. Herzog described Leibler as an asset to the Jewish people and mentioned that the Leibler family is well known in Israel. He suggested that individuals with such qualities are essential for his Voice of the People initiative.

Leibler addressed the room by emphasizing the connection between Israel's security and the solidarity of the Jewish diaspora. He stressed the need for effective communication with those who hold differing views. The gathering included representatives from Australian Zionist organizations who had attended Jewish Agency Board of Governors meetings earlier in the week. Paul Israel, executive director of the Israel Australia Chamber of Commerce, was also present.

The Leibler family made a large appearance, including his father, Mark Leibler. The elder Leibler served as ZFA president for 10 years and received the President's Medal of Honor in 2024. Mark Leibler is scheduled to speak at The Jerusalem Post Conference in Sydney on November 19, alongside Jeremy Leibler and Michal Herzog, who will appear via video.

David Gold will succeed Leibler as the next president of the Zionist Federation of Australia. Gold is a former global chairman of the World Union of Jewish Students and currently serves as president of the Mount Scopus College Foundation. President Herzog met Gold in January 2023 at a reunion of Mount Scopus alumni living in Israel.