Sydney, Australia — In a video broadcast to the Yeshiva Centre’s annual gala dinner on Tuesday evening, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd reaffirmed his government’s pre-election pledges to the Jewish community on security and funding for day schools.
More in the Extended Article!
Australia’s Prime Minister salutes Chabad!
Sydney, Australia — In a video broadcast to the Yeshiva Centre’s annual gala dinner on Tuesday evening, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd reaffirmed his government’s pre-election pledges to the Jewish community on security and funding for day schools.
More in the Extended Article!
The prime minister said it was his first address to a major community gathering since attaining office, and confirmed he would be delivering his promise for “a schools security program costing $20 million over four years”.
The funding was not exclusively for Jewish schools, but they would be the “main beneficiaries”.
Rudd also reiterated a pledge of $16 million for Jewish schools “to make up for inequities created by the previous government’s school-funding model”.
However, the prime minister did not provide an update on tax deductibility for security, which is soon to be debated in parliament.
Rudd commended the Yeshiva for “its wonderful contribution”.
“It reflects core values of Australia and beliefs that we share: a strong commitment to faith, family and community, a belief in the value of education and opportunity for everyone, and a willingness to extend special care and compassion to those who need it most,” he said.
The prime minister wished the Yeshiva Centre success and concluded his address, to resounding applause, with the words, “Am Yisrael Chai.”
Shadow Treasurer Malcolm Turnbull attended the gala and impressed attendees with his ever-increasing vocabulary of Hebrew and Yiddish words, including calling major Yeshiva sponsor Harry Triguboff AO – who celebrated his 75th birthday at the gathering – “a mensch”.
Guests at the event included US Consul-General Judith Fergin, NSW Liberal leader Barry O’Farrell, Minister for Roads and Commerce Eric Roozendaal and member for Vaucluse Peter Debnam.
The Yeshiva Centre honoured entrepreneur and communal identity Kevin Bermeister with a “leadership in philanthropy award”.
Entertainment was provided by MC Vince Sorrenti, the Yeshiva Boys Choir and jazz legend James.
Click Here for a transcript of Prime Minister Kevin Rudd’s speech
Shmuli
Heartwarming to see someone speak so highly of a Jewish community!
one of anash Sydney
Am Yisroel Chai? HaRebbi Melech Hamoshiach Chai VeKayom! Who would have beleived after almost total devastation just a short five years ago,would or even could take place such a rebuilding after the ashes, with heads of government and state, millionares and the entire community rallying to assist Chabad of Sydney? Am Yisroel Chai? HaRebbi Melech Hamoshiach Chai VeKayom! Yishar Koach Rabbi Pinchus Feldman the Rebbe MH”M’s Shliach in Sydney
Viewer
The contents of his speech are amazing! He doesn’t only give his general greetings, but he says some pretty strong words in support of the Jewish community. His mention of Israel is also incredible, especially because the primary complaint of the Arab world (including the many Arabs who live in Australia) against the Jews is the whole concept of Israel (aka Zionism). As such, showing his support of Israel can be a risky endeavor indeed.
Nu, when’s Moshiach coming already???
Sydneysider
Your dedication to Shabad is heartwarming, Mr Rudd. Even though you can’t pronounce the name of our organisation, we are touched by your support. Serious problems face the Jewish community in Australia. Hamas are Al Qaeda must never be underestimated. In protecting our community, no cost should be spared. Very deadly forces conspire against us, and we must be prepared. A strong security force needs to be placed at all Jewish day schools.
Security is not the only problem facing us today, however. Under the Rebbe’s guidance, many yidden were brought back to true yiddishkeit. Continuing his work is of utmost importance. Kiruv needs a strong boost in Australia. Security guards can’t save yiddishe neshamas.
During the upcoming year we have two main challenges. In the interest of our physical safety, we just need more security. Cutting through the darkness of Galus and saving our brothers’ neshamas is a greater challenge! Kiruv is the way to go, to bring Moshiach speedily in our days.
cryptographer
Hey Sydneysider, I see the secret message your trying to convey.
I agree 100%