Israel Seeks Reconciliation With Australia Through Business and Tech

Israel aims to mend its strained relationship with Australia by focusing on economic cooperation, investment, and joint technological projects. Ambassador Hillel Newman, who began his tenure in February 2026, acknowledges the "unstable" nature of bilateral ties, marked by periods of closeness followed by crises. Despite political disagreements and rising antisemitism, Newman believes significant opportunities for rapprochement remain, citing a consistent willingness from Australian officials to improve relations.

Historically, Israel and Australia shared strong ties, dating back to pre-statehood. However, recent years have seen complications, particularly following the October 7th Hamas attack and the subsequent war. Australia's decision to recognize a Palestinian state during the conflict further strained relations. While the Australian government initially supported Israel, public sentiment shifted as the conflict prolonged and energy costs rose.

Newman hopes the current downturn is temporary, suggesting that the war's end and a potential change in Israeli government could pave the way for renewed cooperation. He notes that the vast geographical distance between the countries influences Australian perceptions of Middle Eastern security threats. Fundamental political differences regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and settlement expansion also persist.

To overcome these hurdles, Newman advocates shifting focus from political disputes to economic and technological collaboration, as well as people-to-people connections. He highlights the presence of supportive communities in Australia, including Christian, Indian, Hindu, Greek, and even Iranian groups who have held pro-Israel rallies. The upcoming Australian Summit in Sydney on November 19, organized by The Jerusalem Post, is expected to bring together business leaders, investors, and government officials to explore new avenues for cooperation.

Newman sees economic ties as a foundation for improved political dialogue, stating, "Economy can open doors for diplomacy, and diplomacy, in turn, opens doors for economic cooperation." Over 150 Israeli companies operate in Australia, with dedicated trade promotion efforts underway. Australia is also a key export market for Israel, and Israel's strategic location offers Australian businesses access to European and Latin American markets.

Israel's strengths in research, innovation, and technology are highly valued in Australia, with Israeli advancements already utilized in defense, security, space, agriculture, water management, and medicine. Companies like Netafim, Elbit, CyberArk, and Monday.com are active in the Australian market. Potential exists for collaboration in mining, where Australian expertise can be complemented by Israeli technological solutions like sensors and drones. Australia's research centers, investment capital, and skilled workforce also offer benefits to Israel.

Despite economic potential, rising antisemitism in Australia presents a significant obstacle. Newman points to a report detailing 1,654 antisemitic incidents between October 2024 and September 2025, a sharp increase from previous years. He stresses the need for joint efforts to combat hate and bolster public support for bilateral relations, while maintaining that most Australians still view Israel as a friend. Newman remains optimistic, believing the potential benefits of cooperation are too significant to ignore.