In honour of Australia Day, Telfed brought together Australian Olim – from new arrivals to those who have been here for over 40 years – to discuss how best to support the next wave of Aliyah. The message was clear: participants are deeply proud of their Australian roots, a country they love, and equally proud of the country they have chosen to call home. The partnership between Telfed and the Zionist Federation of Australia spans more than a decade, and with the recent uptick in Aliyah, Telfed’s role in supporting new Olim is more important than ever.
Against the backdrop of growing concern about antisemitism in Australia, many participants spoke about their worries for family and friends still there and their desire to be active partners in promoting Aliyah. The conversation focused on how to better inform, guide, and prepare future Olim, and what practical and emotional support is needed once they arrive in Israel.
“Many participants were unaware of the free services provided by Telfed,” said Maish Isaacson, Telfed Chairman. “We discussed the importance of planning before Aliyah, connecting with Telfed’s pre-Aliyah advisor, building support networks with Olim who speak the same language and have faced similar challenges, and strengthening the Australian community in Israel while encouraging meaningful integration. It was encouraging to see such a motivated community that wants to get involved, help others, and ensure that this information reaches those still in Australia. We know from experience that the more one prepares ahead of their Aliyah, the smoother the journey”
The group also discussed the unique needs across age groups – from Lone Soldiers navigating integration to seniors reuniting with family, some of whom are comfortable remaining within familiar ‘Anglo’ circles. The connection between South African and Australian Olim emerged strongly, rooted in shared values, friendships, and a love of Israel – and often sport. While Australians may call it a barbie and South Africans a braai, there was unanimous agreement that creating spaces where young Olim can connect and feel at home is what truly matters.
Michael Say, one of the participants, said about the event:
“Last night I was at an event hosted by Telfed at their Rannana offices. The main idea was brainstorming to help the new olim coming from Australia.
We were a mix of new and old olim and it was a wonderful event. I think being together with fellow Aussies was my personal highlight.”
Considering Aliyah? Don’t wait until you arrive to start planning. Contact Sarah, Telfed’s pre-Aliyah advisor, to set up a meeting: [email protected]
Arrived in Israel and stuck in bureaucracy? Navigating bureaucracy is part of the integration process, but Noa is available to provide support when you need it: [email protected]
To SA and Aussie Olim, these services are free of charge to help you with your aliyah and integration. Don’t hesitate to reach out (or share this info with friends and family in the process).
