A New Voice in Canberra: Israel’s Ambassador Sets Out His Vision at the National Press Club

In his first major address since arriving in Australia, Israel’s newly appointed Ambassador, His Excellency Dr Hillel Newman, delivered a wide-ranging and deeply personal speech at the National Press Club—one that blended biography, geopolitics, and a clear statement of intent for the Australia–Israel relationship.

Opening with warmth and humility, the Ambassador acknowledged the significance of the moment—not only for his own diplomatic posting, but for what he described as a “historic” period globally. 

A Personal Journey, A Diplomatic Mission

Ambassador Newman’s remarks began not with policy, but with story.

Tracing his roots from South Africa to Israel, he spoke of his parents’ decision to leave a system of segregation in search of a society grounded in equality and shared destiny. That experience, he said, shaped both his worldview and his career.

Israel, in his telling, is a “living mosaic” of cultures and histories—a nation defined by diversity and democratic aspiration. 

It was a deliberate framing: one aimed at connecting with an Australian audience equally invested in multiculturalism and democratic values.

A Relationship Built on Shared Values

Throughout the address, the Ambassador emphasised the longstanding ties between Australia and Israel, describing the relationship as one grounded in “values, principles and mutual interests.” 

He acknowledged that disagreements between allies are inevitable—but stressed that such differences should not overshadow the deeper alignment between the two nations.

In a notable moment, he also commended Australia’s stance on regional security issues, particularly in relation to Iran, positioning Canberra firmly within what he described as a community of “moderate modern democracies.” 

A World in Flux

The speech did not shy away from the complexity of the current geopolitical environment.

Ambassador Newman framed the present moment as one of profound transformation, arguing that the Middle East—and potentially the global order—is undergoing significant change. 

He spoke at length about Israel’s security challenges, including the events of October 7, 2023, and the broader regional tensions involving Iran and its proxies. These, he argued, are not isolated issues but part of a wider contest between what he characterised as “moderates and radicals.”

For an Australian audience, the message was clear: distance no longer guarantees security in an interconnected world.

Implications for Australia

A notable feature of the address was its effort to connect Middle Eastern dynamics directly to Australian interests.

From energy security to social cohesion, the Ambassador highlighted how global instability—particularly disruptions in oil supply routes—can have tangible effects on Australian households. 

He also addressed the rise of anti-Semitism globally and within Australia, describing it as a challenge that requires collective vigilance.

Engaging the Press—and the Public

In a robust Q&A session, the Ambassador fielded questions on a range of topics, including civilian casualties, military operations, and legislative developments in Israel.

While defending Israel’s positions, he repeatedly emphasised the complexity of decision-making in a volatile security environment, noting that allies’ perspectives are “taken seriously,” even when they are not ultimately adopted. 

The exchange underscored both the scrutiny Israel faces internationally and the importance of forums like the National Press Club in fostering open dialogue.

Looking Ahead

Ambassador Newman’s address marks the beginning of what is likely to be an active and closely watched diplomatic tenure in Canberra.

His message was ultimately one of partnership—grounded in shared values, tested by global uncertainty, and shaped by the realities of a rapidly changing world.

As Australia continues to navigate its role on the international stage, the Ambassador’s remarks serve as both an introduction and an invitation: to engage, to debate, and to strengthen a relationship that has long been a feature of Australia’s foreign policy landscape.