Jeremy Leibler Hands Over ZFA Leadership to David Gold

Jeremy Leibler concluded his eight-year tenure as president of the Zionist Federation of Australia on Wednesday during a farewell reception at the President’s Residence. President Isaac Herzog hosted the event to honor Leibler’s departure. David Gold, the incoming president, is a former global chairman of the World Union of Jewish Students and currently leads the Mount Scopus College Foundation.

Former ambassador to Australia Amir Maimon addressed the gathering alongside Australian Ambassador to Israel Neil Hawkins. Maimon described the atmosphere in Canberra as cold, a metaphor for the political climate following the October 7 attacks. He credited Leibler with negotiating a warm welcome for President Herzog’s state visit to Australia in February 2026. Maimon stated that the visit was successful as a direct result of those negotiations.

Jewish Agency chairman Doron Almog spoke to Leibler’s resolve during the wave of antisemitism that affected Australia. Almog quoted Leibler directly: “I saw you. I heard you when you said: ‘We’re not going anywhere. We’re here to stay.’” Other speakers highlighted Leibler’s pride in his Australian identity and his courage in representing the community.

Michal Herzog, the president’s wife, shared her personal history with the Australian Jewish community. She recalled her first visit to Australia in November 1986, accompanying her father-in-law, then-President Chaim Herzog, on his historic state visit. That trip marked the first time an Israeli president traveled so far south. Michal Herzog stated, “We feel very close to the Australian Jewish community, and we feel especially close in times of crisis.”

President Herzog praised Leibler for his clear communication and leadership. Herzog said, “You say what you mean.. You were very clear about bringing me to Australia. It was very impressive.. You are truly an asset to the Jewish people. We know Leiblers from all sides, an incredible family.” Herzog also noted that leaders like Leibler fit within the president’s Voice of the People initiative.

In his response, Leibler stated that he has come to understand how Israel’s security relies on the solidarity of the Jewish people. He emphasized the need to learn how to communicate with those who hold different views. Leibler will make one final appearance as ZFA president at The Jerusalem Post Conference in Sydney on November 19. His father, Mark Leibler, and Michal Herzog will also speak at the event, with the latter joining via video.

Mark Leibler, who led the ZFA for 10 years, attended the reception. He received the President’s Medal of Honor, Israel’s highest civilian award, in 2024. The event included representatives from Australian Zionist organizations who recently met with the Jewish Agency’s Board of Governors. Paul Israel, executive director of the Israel Australia Chamber of Commerce, was also present, along with three generations of the Leibler family from both Israel and Australia.