Media Release

The Dor Foundation Established to Combat Antisemitism and Hate

The Dor Foundation is a not-for-profit, non-partisan organisation established to empower all Australians to stand together against antisemitism and hate. The Foundation will drive new initiatives and work with organisations already doing good work to build tolerance, understanding and enhance social cohesion.

The Foundation is led by a Board of Guardians who are leaders in their fields with extensive experience across government, business and the not-for-profit sectors.

The Jewish community is experiencing the highest number of hate crimes per capita among all Australian minority groups, and the number of incidents is rising. Boycotts, doxxing, vandalism and arson attacks have targeted Jewish individuals online, and in their homes, businesses, schools, universities and places of worship – and the impact has been felt by all Australians.

The Dor Foundation’s focus will be on areas where research tells us we can be most effective at increasing social cohesion. Initially, this will include university campuses and the online space. The Foundation will leverage research, data and global best practices, and work in partnership with others, to drive the best possible outcomes.

Board of Guardians Chair, The Hon Josh Frydenberg said “The frequency and intensity of antisemitic attacks in our country is unprecedented. The intolerance we are seeing is un-Australian and undermines our shared values of freedom, respect, fairness and equality. Combatting antisemitism is not just the Jewish community’s fight, it is Australia’s fight”.

Deputy Chair Elana Rubin AM said “the rise in antisemitism should be a concern for all Australians. It is an attack on the principles of multiculturalism and inclusion that Australians value deeply. We must all work together to stop it in its tracks”.

Dor Foundation Guardian Jennifer Westacott said “As an educator and business person I have seen a dangerous rise in antisemitism which I believe is a threat to Australia’s way of life. As a non-Jewish person, I see myself as having a moral responsibility to be part of a movement to stamp antisemitism out and I believe the Dor Foundation will play a vital role in meeting this challenge”.

The Dor Foundation has appointed Tahli Blicblau as its inaugural CEO. Tahli joins the Foundation from her former role as a Senior Executive in the NSW Public Service. She brings extensive experience in driving evidence-based strategies to reduce social harms and improve community safety. Tahli said, “I feel privileged to be leading The Dor Foundation, and implementing a nationally coordinated long-term strategy, that fosters collaboration, leadership and innovation”.

Inquiries:
info@thedorfoundation.org.au
www.thedorfoundation.org.au

Tanya Cherny