Jeremy Leibler ends eight-year tenure as head of Australia's main Zionist body

Jeremy Leibler is stepping down as president of the Zionist Federation of Australia (ZFA) after serving in the role for eight years. He held the position through a period marked by rising tensions and a sharp increase in antisemitic incidents across the country.

Leibler bid farewell at a reception on Wednesday at the President's Residence in Jerusalem. The event was hosted by President Isaac Herzog to honor the outgoing leader. Several high-ranking officials and community figures attended the gathering.

Former Israeli Ambassador to Australia Amir Maimon spoke at the event. He described the political climate in Canberra as very cold. Maimon noted that this chill extended beyond the weather, referring to the diplomatic environment during Leibler's tenure.

Maimon credited Leibler with helping to secure a warm welcome for Herzog during his state visit to Australia in February 2026. The ambassador said Leibler negotiated with Australian authorities to ensure the visit went smoothly. Maimon called the trip a success and described Leibler as a source of wisdom during a challenging time.

Doron Almog, the chairman of the Jewish Agency, also praised Leibler's leadership. Almog recalled a specific moment when Leibler addressed the community with the message that they were not going anywhere and were there to stay. Almog said this statement demonstrated Leibler's courage.

President Herzog highlighted Leibler's direct communication style. He said Leibler was clear about bringing him to Australia and described him as an asset to the Jewish people. Herzog added that the family has deep ties to Israel, noting that he knows the Leiblers from all sides.

Michal Herzog, the president's wife, attended the reception. She recalled her first visit to Australia in November 1986. She joined her in-laws for the historic state visit of then-president Chaim Herzog. That trip was the first by an Israeli president to the southern hemisphere.

Leibler used the occasion to reflect on the importance of Jewish solidarity. He said he realized how much Israel's security relies on the unity of the Jewish diaspora. He also emphasized the need to learn how to communicate with people who disagree with you.

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

Leibler will make one of his final appearances as president at The Jerusalem Post Conference in Sydney on November 19. His father, Mark Leibler, will also speak at the event. Mark Leibler led the ZFA for 10 years and received the President's Medal of Honor in 2024. Michal Herzog is scheduled to address the conference by video.