Adler makes aliyah

Former Australian Jewish Association (AJA) president David Adler has relocated to Israel, saying the surge in antisemitism in Australia was a significant factor in his decision.

The AJA said it was aware of a growing number of Australian Jews considering the same move amid concerns about their long-term future in Australia.

Adler, who led the organisation for close to a decade, said he no longer recognised his country of birth.

“I am proud of the contribution I have made to Australia, but I no longer recognise the country. Antisemitism and violence directed at Jews has reached levels under this government that I never expected to see in Australia,” he said.

He said Australia faced “growing hostility not only towards Jews and Israel, but also towards Australia itself and the values upon which Western civilisation is built”. He contrasted that with what he described as a clear sense of national purpose in Israel.

“It’s not an easy decision, and I frankly refuse to be the proverbial frog in the hot water. Some people say that Australia is approaching a tipping point. My assessment is that it … has reached and passed the tipping point on a variety of measures.”

AJA president and CEO Robert Gregory paid tribute to his predecessor, describing his contribution to Australia through the association and through a long career in medicine and business as outstanding.

“We wish Dr Adler every success in this next chapter of his life,” Gregory said.

“It is a deeply troubling reflection on the Australian government that increasing numbers of Australian Jews believe they will be safer in Israel, a country that has endured almost three years of war, than in Australia.”