First Jewish chaplain appointed to AFP
Rabbi Glasman said serving those who protect the community is a “profound honour”.
Melbourne Rabbi Yaakov Glasman has been appointed as the first Jewish Chaplain in the history of the Australian Federal Police, filling a gap in Jewish chaplaincy representation that has existed since the AFP’s establishment.
The St Kilda Hebrew Congregation spiritual leader was confirmed in the Honorary Chaplain role following a VAJEX commemoration ceremony last month.
“I am deeply humbled to have been appointed as an Honorary Chaplain to the Australian Federal Police,” Rabbi Glasman said.
“Every day, AFP officers place themselves in harm’s way in service of the broader community, often under immense pressure and in challenging circumstances. To be given the opportunity to support them in any way is a profound honour.”
Jewish chaplains have served in the Australian Defence Forces and Victoria Police for many years, but the AFP had until now not had a Jewish chaplain.
Rabbi Glasman said he had been inspired to seek the role by two colleagues already serving in similar capacities.
“I’ve been inspired by my close friends and colleagues, Rabbis Dovid Gutnick and Shmuel Karnowsky, who serve as Chaplains for the ADF and Victoria Police respectively.”
Rabbi Glasman holds a Masters of Counselling from Monash University, which he draws on regularly in his congregational work at St Kilda Shule, and said those skills would inform his approach to the new role.
“In my new role, I hope to draw on my pastoral and counselling experience to provide care, guidance, and a listening ear to those who seek it, whether Jewish or non-Jewish members of the AFP.”
The appointment carries particular significance for Jewish communal representation, he said.
“I am especially proud to represent the Jewish community in this capacity, continuing a tradition of contributing to the wellbeing of our wider society. While chaplaincy has long been part of institutions such as Victoria Police and the Australian Defence Forces, it is particularly meaningful to serve as the first Jewish person appointed to the AFP in this role.”