Exploring Jewish demography

Australian Friends of the Hebrew University and Central Synagogue recently hosted demographers Professor Uzi Rebhun of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Dr David Graham, lead researcher of Gen26, for a discussion on demographic change in Israel and Australian Jewry.

The event, titled Israel’s Future … And Ours, was facilitated by National Council of Jewish Women Australia president Lynda Ben-Menashe, and examined how demographic change, Jewish identity and the events of October 7 are affecting Jewish communities in Israel, Australia and the Diaspora.

Rebhun, who is visiting Australia as a Mandelbaum fellow, spoke on the growth of Israel’s population from fewer than 900,000 people in 1948 to almost 10 million today, along with shifts within the Jewish population itself.

He addressed changing patterns of religious identity, political orientation and migration, as well as the growing Israeli population living abroad and its implications for Israel-Diaspora relations.

Rebhun also presented research on changes in communal involvement and attachment to Israel following October 7, drawing on data examining how Jewish communities have responded to the changed environment since the attack.

Graham addressed two opportunities to gather data on Australian Jewry: the 2026 census and Gen26. He said census participation was important for understanding the size and demographic profile of Australian Jewry, while Gen26 would provide a broader picture of Jewish life, identity, attitudes and experiences across the community.

Graham said the two datasets, taken together, would serve as a lasting source of information about Australian Jewish life and would assist with communal planning.

The event included an audience Q&A, with questions focused on what the demographic trends discussed might mean for the future of Israel, Australian Jewry and the relationship between the two communities.

Australian Friends of the Hebrew University CEO Rob Schneider thanked Rebhun and Graham for sharing their expertise and Ben-Menashe for guiding a wide-ranging and timely conversation.