Jewish Aid Australia was founded in 1994 (originally called Keshet) as a response to the humanitarian disaster unfolding in Rwanda. Our aim was to create within the Australian Jewish community a recognizable organisation that could provide a collective response to important humanitarian issues in the non-Jewish world.

Since 1994, JAA has raised approximately $700,000 for international emergency relief, and $450,000 for the Victorian bushfire appeal, collected clothing and toys for local projects, provided educational programs to the Jewish Day schools of Melbourne, and created programs that allow JAA volunteers to make a meaningful difference and engage with people from other communities. Jewish Aid Australia was recently awarded Victorian Multicultural Award for Excellence for our work with the refugees from Darfur and the Nuba Mountains.

In late 2009, JAA employed its first CEO, Gary Samowitz, and moved into a bigger office in Malvern. Ric Benjamin stepped down as President after 11 excellent years, and Danny Almagor took over the reins.

Why Jewish Aid?

We are inspired by our Jewish tradition to pursue social justice both inside and outside our community.  We work with our volunteers to explore Jewish meaning for their work, according to values such as tikkun olam (repairing the world), tzedahah (charity), and chessed (kindness).  Our volunteers are proud, respectful ambassadors for the Australian Jewish community.

There are many aid and development organisations that coordinate similar programs, involving many Jewish volunteers. JAA fills a niche in the international and community development sectors because the organization:

o   Builds a Jewish social network. 

o   Presents a positive image of Jewish people.

o   Links in with other Jewish humanitarian organisations overseas.

o   Provides meaningful Jewish experiences.

o   Mobilises the Jewish community, which is well resourced and in a position to provide aid.

o   Provides an opportunity to express Jewish identity through social action.