AFTAU Scholarship Campaign

In memory of Walter Kastelan z”l

AFTAU Treasurer and TAU Governor

Your generous support can make a world of difference in securing a
brighter future for a disadvantaged student.

Scholarship Stories

Your valuable contribution will help those who need it most

Please make your tax-deductible donation here

or call (03) 9296 2066

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Study at TAU

Why TAU?

The Lowy International School

Programs

The Lowy International School programs are academically rigorous and culturally inspiring.

Study Abroad

Our Study Abroad programs offer a transformative academic experience at TAU, coupled with Tel Aviv,  Israel’s internationally diverse cultural, commercial, and creative center. 

Choose from a semester abroad or a year abroad at Israel’s leading university and explore a range of academic and interdisciplinary programs taught by top-notch faculty. This Mediterranean city’s thriving spirit for discovery, innovation, and diversity makes it the perfect city for experiencing academic life and pursuing your passions

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ELI GAP YEAR PROGRAM

READ MORE ABOUT IT HERE!

Short Term Programs

Dive into some of the hottest cutting-edge topics right in your classroom.

If you are ready to spend time this summer in Israel and are looking for a fantastic program or course to join, then TAUI’s Summer programs are the perfect fit for you! Choose from an extensive list of Summer Programs led by faculty and leading experts in the field.  Our students and professionals come from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures and you will build lifelong connections while enjoying your time in the heart of Tel Aviv!

Did you know that The Lowy International School offers many summer scholarships? We strongly encourage all students to check out our scholarships page for more details and instructions on how to apply. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to study in the summer in the heart of Tel Aviv.

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Undergraduate Degrees

Our international Bachelor’s Degree programs combine first-class academics with eye-opening cultural and personal experiences.

Build a strong academic foundation in the first year and specialize towards the end of the program in a tailor-made degree to suit your specific interests. Based on an interdisciplinary approach, you’ll learn from highly experienced professors and researchers across different faculties, and debate issues with many other talented students from all over the world.

• B.A.Liberal Arts

Explore the foundations of humanity where past and future meet, with a truly multidisciplinary approachdesigned to nurture grounded leaders and innovators.

• Dual Degree Liberal Arts Program – TAU & Columbia University

Immerse yourself in different academic, social, and cultural environments attwoworld-renowned research universities.

Spend your first two years at Tel Aviv University, and your final two at Columbia University, located in the heart of New York City.

• International BA in Management and Liberal Arts

NEW!

Study management and liberal arts in the academic core of the Start-Up Nation!

This 3-year dual degree will give you the tools to achieve not only as an excellent manager and innovator, but also as a well-rounded individual with a background in the liberal arts. 

• The Buchmann-Mehta School of Music International Program

Get a degree B.Mus. in four years, for instrumental and vocal departments, and truly learn to play the universal language of mankind.

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Graduate Degree Programs

Delve deeper into your area of interest through one of our 15 international master’s programs.

Each program combines a rigorous core curriculum with a diverse offering of electives, allowing you to tailor your studies to your own interests while gaining advanced knowledge in your chosen field.

Learning takes place both inside and outside the classroom, with regular site visits, guest lectures, and excursions designed to give you access to the cutting edge of research and industry.

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Doctoral Programs Overview

Welcome to the next step in your academic journey!

As a PhD student at TAU, you will be joining a diverse international community of excellent scientists from all over the world. Join top-notch research teams led by world-renowned scholars who have significantly contributed to the advancement of knowledge in a variety of fields. PhD programs with infinite possibilities for interdisciplinary research collaborations are available in all of our faculties, entirely in English. 

With 125 research institutions, 400 labs, 3,500 annual projects, and over 1,000 full-time faculty members, TAU also enjoys extensive research contacts with leading academic and scientific institutions around the globe, including over 150 cooperation agreements with universities in North and South America, Europe, and Asia.

At TAU you’ll build an exceptional network of researchers in academia and industry that you can refer to throughout your career. Located in the Non-Stop City of Tel Aviv, with its renowned range of cultural activities, cutting-edge technological startups, and marvelous beaches, there is no better place to discover the next stage of your academic career.

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Activities, Sport, Campus Life, Housing

Welcome to Tel Aviv University!

The Lowy International School is home to more than 2,500 students per year coming from all corners of the world. Together, they create a warm international community.

Whether you are looking for the suitable program to apply for, you are already accepted or you are a current student at TAU, we are happy to provide you of any information that you require.

You can also contact our International office for any additional questions.

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Scholarships

For information regarding AFTAU Scholarships please contact us

All academic units & programs @ TAU

learn more …

Visit Tel Aviv University in a virtual campus tour

CONTACT

Welcome to the Australian Friends of Tel Aviv University!

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What does AFTAU do?

AFTAU’s activities support a large variety of projects at TAU

AFTAU is a dynamic organisation which:

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  Represents Tel Aviv University (TAU) here in Australia.

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  Is involved in the promotion and increasing public awareness of TAU.

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  Promotes increasing liaison and cooperation, by way of education and cooperative research and scientific and cultural exchange between TAU and Australian Universities and other educational institutions, Government, and private industry.

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  Raises funds for TAU.

About Tel Aviv University

TAU Publications

TAU Reviews

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  Why TAU?

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  ALEPH-TAV

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  2023

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  2022

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  2021

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  2020

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  2019

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  2018

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  2018 special

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  2017

Click here for more TAU Reviews …

Tel Aviv University – Annual Reports

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  2024

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  2023

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  2022

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  2021

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  2020

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  2019

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  2018

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Click here for more TAU Annual Reports …

Our Chapters

Victoria

Phone: +61 3 9296 2065
Email: office@aftau.asn.au

New South Wales

Phone: +61 418 465 556
Email: davidsolomon@aftau.org.au

Western Australia

Phone: :+61 0418 46 5556
Email: davidsolomon@aftau.org.au

Leadership & Team:

• 

  VICTORIA CHAPTER

  • Roger Mendelson (PRESIDENT)
    

    Roger is married to Sue, has 3 adult children and 5 young grandchildren.

    He was educated at Wesley and Monash University, became a lawyer, worked in Oxford for 3 years, been a commercial partner in a Melbourne law firm and established Prushka Fast Debt Recovery in 1977, which he is CEO of as well as principal of Mendelsons Lawyers . He was on the board of TBI for 1 year and then became president for 3 years. He was a vice president of Progressive Judaism Victoria and ultimately president of Union for Progressive Judaism for 4 years. He has been chair of Progressive Jewish Cultural Fund for 5 years.

    Roger has served as President of AFTAU Vic since 2023.

  • Marshall Segan (DEPUTY PRESIDENT)
    

    Marshall has developed a wide range of business and organisational skills dating back to his days as a Sports administrator and junior state championship coach for the Nunawading Spectres a founding club of the Australian National Basketball League.

    He currently focuses on Property Investment & management and assists SME businesses with a range of strategic planning and succession issues.  He describes some of his interests as “ business strategist”. 

    Marshall enjoys his role assisting the President and Board for the Australian Friends of Tel Aviv University.

  • Dr. Harry Perelberg (VICE PRESIDENT)
    

    Harry is a GP with a long standing commitment to the causes of TAU and is currently Vice President of AFTAU. He has been involved with Australian Friends of Tel Aviv University for 25 years and his father before him. He was President of AFTAU from 1999 -2001.

  • Gabor Ujvari (TREASURER)
    

    Gabor has over four decades of experience in electrical, electronic and telecommunication systems as a Test Engineer and Sales & Marketing Engineer.
    He worked for major corporations in Sweden and Australia and conducted business on behalf of NEC Corporation in the Australia - Pacific region, in Africa and Asia. Currently Gabor markets electronic components and modules on behalf of QuadRep Marketing (S) Pte Ltd in Australia and New Zealand with a local company QuadRep Technology Australia.

     

     

  • Rebecca Silk (SECRETARY)
    

    Rebecca has a background in social work, community services education and health service management in NSW. Her particular areas of  interest included child protection, mental health and aged care services. 

    Since coming to Melbourne her communal work  has  included  service on the Boards of  the Australian Reform Zionist Association  (ARZA), and  Progressive Judaism Victoria (PJV.) Rebecca was president of the Dunera Association from 2012-2018 and Temple Beth Israel from  2018-2021

    Rebecca joined the Board of AFTAU Vic in 2022.

  • Keith Beville
    

    Keith graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce from The University of Melbourne in 1956. He served part time in the Australian Citizen Military Forces for ten years retiring with the rank of Captain. Keith joined the family retail business in 1957, and became director in 1961. After forty years as CEO he retired in 2014. In 1955 Keith was instrumental in founding the young leadership groups at the  United Israel Appeal (Keren Hayesod) Victoria and became a key member of the Executive. In the 1950’s and 1960’s Keith served as a district JNF Blue Box chairman. He was also Treasurer of the Victorian Jewish Board of Deputies during Isi Leibler’s presidency. Keith was elected as Chairman of UIA Victoria in 1973 and in 1980 he became President.

    Keith was elected a Governor of the Jewish Agency in 1982 where he held portfolios of chairman of the budget and finance committee for the Youth Aliya and the Communications committee.  During the late Ron Krongold’s term as President of Australian Friends of Tel Aviv University Keith and Deirdre became regular contributors and provided their home for various functions. Keith worked alongside Meir Buber at the UIA during his leadership.

    Keith is currently involved in the leadership of the Australian Israel Jewish Affairs Council (AIJAC) lead by Marc Leibler and Colin Rubinstein.

    Keith Beville was appointed a TAU Governor on the 17th of May 2020 in honour of his commitment and service to Tel Aviv University over the years.

  • David Cyngler
    

    David is a governance and digital transformation professional with extensive experience across local government, consulting, and the not-for-profit sector. He is currently a board member of the Australian Friends of Tel Aviv University (Melbourne) and also set up and leads the G3 Program, which broadens social engagement opportunities for Jewish adults aged 18–35.

    David is currently a Senior Consultant at Bevington Group (part of Argon & Co), where he advises organisations on strategy, operating models, and scalability. He has held senior roles at Hobsons Bay City Council, where he led strategic and business planning, coordinated the Audit and Risk Committee, and oversaw major IT and AI-driven transformation projects.

    In addition to his professional work, David has a strong commitment to community engagement and Jewish leadership. His career reflects a consistent focus on strengthening governance, driving innovation, and enabling organisations to adapt successfully to complex challenges.

  • Jim Cyngler
  • Ros Kushinsky
    

    Ros’s parents, Adam (zl) and Ida (zl) Frydman, Holocaust survivors, had a passion for education and Israel.  Their encouragement and support helped Ros achieve a long career in science, in several disciplines. Adam’s long time tendencies to volunteer onto Committees led him and Ida to be part of the original group of interested and dedicated people who set up the Australian Friends of Tel Aviv University. Adam became formally a Committee member and later an External Governor of TAU, Ida was on the Committee ‘by marriage’ and their involvement lasted until her father passed away in 2009.  Apart from Committee business, raised funds for specific projects such as scholarships, as well as encouraging and securing large donations towards buildings, and hosting TAU emissaries to Melbourne.

    After the AFTAU Oration in Honour of her parents was held in April 2013, Ros was delighted to be asked to join the Committee and later was extremely honoured and humbled to be nominated for, and accepted to, the TAU External Board of Governors, thus continuing her Parents’ legacy with the University.

    Attending the Board of Governors Meetings and the associated meetings of the Student Welfare, the Building and Maintenance, and the Finance Committees, has given Ros an insight into many of the vast achievements and complexity of this large and vibrant University, its faculty and its students and to contribute to the discussions in these Committees. Even during the time of COVID-19, Zoom meetings of these and other Committees have occurred.

    Ros has been particularly moved by meeting with undergraduate students of TAU,  who have been helped by grants from scholarship funds raised by AFTAU over the years, and by hearing about the many innovative programs, conducted by TAU to support students from all sectors of the Israeli population to succeed in their studies and to take part in social contributions to Israeli society, during their study.

  • Russell Levy
  • Tami Olsha
    

    Tami joined the AFTAU committee as secretary in the early 80’s. Tami and Rick’s home was the official “office” of the Friends of the Tel Aviv University, and she was involved in interesting lectures, wonderful events, and many highlights.

    Tami always looked forward to attending the Annual Board of Governors meetings held in Israel where one saw the great developments at the TAU Campus, and met with the students and astounding researchers at the University. Her fondest memories are attending the presentation ceremonies of the Honorary Doctorate to her dear friends Ron Krongold z”l and Alan Selwyn z”l and many others. It was a privilege to be in the company of some of the world’s greatest minds and to attend spectacular performances and lectures, particularly the recipients of the Dan David Prize.

  • Rosie Potaznik (PAST PRESIDENT AND AMBASSADOR)
    

    Rosie Potaznik’s association with Tel Aviv University spans more than three decades and reflects a deep personal and philanthropic commitment.

     

    Her journey began in 1994 when she addressed the inauguration of the Buchmann Faculty of Law on behalf of her uncle, Josef Buchmann. During that ceremony, her grandparents, Eliezer and Chaya Buchmann, who perished in the Holocaust, were honoured with a commemorative plaque placed at the Faculty’s entrance. This profoundly meaningful moment marked the beginning of her long and dedicated service to the University and to Australian Friends of Tel Aviv University (AFTAU).

     

    Rosie joined the AFTAU Board in 2000 and served with distinction as President from 2019 to 2023. In 2010, she was elected to the Tel Aviv University Board of Governors, contributing to the strategic advancement of the University’s mission and global engagement. In recognition of her exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment, she has been named a recipient of Tel Aviv University’s 70th Anniversary Recognition Award (2026) for Exceptional Contribution.

     

    Educated at the University of Melbourne, Rosie completed studies in Science and Psychology (Honours) before graduating in 1977 with a Bachelor of Social Work. In 1983, she authored Understanding Adoption, a pioneering publication written during a period of significant legal reform.

     

    Her broader communal leadership includes more than 14 years of volunteer service with the Jewish National Fund, including six years as Vice President.
  • Aitan Schmideg
  • René Spungin (MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER)
  • Eva Landy (OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR)
  • PATRONS (click to view)
    • Mark Leibler AC
  • PAST PRESIDENTS (click to view)
    • Isaac Roseby z”l
    • The Hon. Walter Jona AM z”l
    • The Hon. Howard Nathan QC
    • Abe Monester QC
    • Dr. Harry Perelberg
    • Ron Krongold z”l
    • Vivien Zimmet
    • Dr. Victor Wayne
    • Rosie Potaznik
• 

  NEW SOUTH WALES CHAPTER

  • Andrew Silberberg (PRESIDENT)

    Andrew Silberberg is a Sydney-based investor, advisor and company director. He spent eight years as a partner and head of corporate in the Sydney office of Arnold Bloch Leibler, prior to which he worked at Freehills and Clifford Chance.

    During that time, Andrew worked across various industries, including energy, financial services, property, health care and FMCG.

    Since 2016, Andrew has been involved in investing in, managing and advising early-stage and other businesses. Andrew's experience includes leading cross-border transactions, structuring, raising equity and debt capital in Australia and the U.S., and negotiating strategic alliances, licenses and joint ventures.

    Currently based in Sydney, Andrew has worked in the United States, United Kingdom and Switzerland.

    Andrew is an alumnus of Monash University and the London School of Economics. Andrew sits on the boards and advisory boards of businesses and several community organisations.

  • Jenny Hillman (VICE-PRESIDENT)

    Jenny Hilman has been on the AFTAU NSW Committee since 2013. She held the role of President from 2019 to 2024.

    After graduating with a BA from Sydney University, Jenny was headhunted by Clive Evatt at Hogarth Gallery, leading to her active involvement in the Arts and successful career in various businesses. This includes establishing a manufacturing business, a career in Investment Banking and the opportunity to join Ipoh Gardens & OSW in a joint venture spanning 12 years and participation in the construction and fit out of World Square, Sydney.

    Jenny and her business partner worked for many years with the key property developers in Sydney, including Harry Triguboff.

    During this time Jenny also curated the Shalom Gamarada annual art exhibition which raised funds for Indigenous student scholarships to study at UNSW. She was also on the Boards of The Blake Prize (for spiritual art) and The State Zionist Council. 

    Jenny is extremely committed to supporting Israel and involving the Sydney Jewish community in supporting Tel Aviv University.

  • Mark Spiro

    Mark Spiro spent 19 years in various Banking roles with both Citibank and J.P. Morgan across Tel Aviv, Sydney & Singapore.

    His last role was as Executive Director, Head of Institutional Wealth Management for Asia Pacific, J. P. Morgan, based out of Singapore.

    Prior to this role, Mark headed the Australia Private Banking business for 6 years and before this was a Senior Private Banker with Citibank covering the firm’s largest clients across South East Asia.

    He is currently the Co-Founder & CEO ArborKnot Capital Partners, a business reimagining the consumer receivables ecosystem. They have a global footprint spanning Australia, Europe, Israel and the USA.

    Mark is also a Board member of several established Sydney communal not for profits and is an active participant in his family’s foundation which focuses its energy across the special needs ecosystem.

    Mark is an alumnus of the University of New South Wales with a Bachelor of Commerce (Finance and International Business).

  • Ali Hillman

    Ali Hillman founded Friday Trampoline, an art consultancy that services clients in the UK, Europe, United States and Australia.

    Ali has been responsible for the public art programme at Microsoft founder Paul Allen’s sites in London and Los Angeles. Producing six to eight public exhibitions each year, more than one hundred artist residencies and developing cultural strategy alongside institutions; including public museums, commercial galleries and leading art and design fairs.

    Specialising in debut exhibitions that springboard early career artists into public consciousness, Ali built strategic partnerships and collaborations with Frieze Art Fair, Photo London, London Design Museum, The Photographer’s Gallery, Design Festival, Royal Academy of Arts and Royal College of Art.

    Ali is currently engaged in a philanthropic role with Artspace - a not-for-profit public art institution and Australia’s leading interdisciplinary space for the production and presentation of contemporary art.  

    Ali completed her Bachelor and Master degrees at the University of New South Wales in Fine Art Theory and Design and also studied at the Sotheby’s Institute, London.

  • David Faktor

    David Faktor's primary role over the past two decades has been in both internal and external stakeholder engagement - promoting key organisational strategic objectives while overseeing risk-mitigation strategies.

    He is regarded as a leading public affairs & communications specialist within the healthcare and biomedical research sectors.

    David is the key spokesperson for St Vincent’s Health Australia facilities across NSW, holding leadership roles in relation to communicating organisational cultural change as well as public health advocacy.

    Prior to working at St Vincent’s, David was the Manager of Public Affairs at The Alfred Hospital in Melbourne for 4 years. He also served on the Board of Management of WAYS Youth Services for 6 years and as a Board Director of Emanuel School for 2 years. He is currently a Board Director of Stretch a Family.

    David is an alumnus of Macquarie University with a Bachelor of Arts, Economics Honours.

• 

  WESTERN AUSTRALIA CHAPTER

  • David Solomon (CEO)

    CEO - Australian Friends of Tel Aviv University

    M: (+61) 0418 46 5556

    E: davidsolomon@aftau.org.au

• NATIONAL OFFICE

  • David Solomon – (CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER)

    David brings a diverse background to the role of CEO for Australian Friends of Tel Aviv University.

    He feels a tremendous alignment with the Tel Aviv University objectives of pursuing the next big idea, the next challenge, the next mystery that will advance human knowledge and improve all our lives. And equally, helping to serve as a dynamic bridge between two inspired communities — Australian and Israeli.

    From a business perspective he is a start-up strategist with experience in roles covering directorship, business management, strategic and operational consulting, business coaching, mentoring, leadership, executive search and not-for profits. This includes 15 years consulting & coaching to entrepreneurs and corporates and launching several successful start-ups. Prior experience in international executive search and running a Human Resources outsourcing business.

    The last 6 years have been focussed primarily in the not-for-profit sector with a particular specialisation in philanthropy. Relevant career roles include:

    • Australian Red Cross Society – National Philanthropy Executive
    • Jewish House Limited – Organisational Development Lead
    • Solu Plus / Quiddity – Higher Purpose Business Specialist / Business Performance Strategist
    • Offsite Human Resources – Joint Managing Director
    • TASA International – Partner with global executive search firm
    • Australia-Israel Chamber of Commerce – 13 years on the Board, including 2 years as President and 2 years as Vice-President.

TAU Board of Governors

• Keith Beville

• David Dinte

• Clive Donner

• John Gandel, AC Hon.PhD. (TAU)

• Jenny Hillman

• Roslyn Kushinsky

• John Landerer, AM, CBE

• Dr. Gustav Lehrer, AM

• Mark Leibler, AC

• Sir Frank Lowy, AC

• Roger Mendelson

• Dr. Harry Perelberg

• Rosie Potaznik

• Evi Selwyn

• Andrew Silberberg

• Vivien Zimmet

• Professor Paul Zimmet Hon.PhD. (TAU)

Honorary Governors

• Gad Ben-Meir

• Abe Monester, QC

• The Hon Howard Nathan AM QC

• Dr. Victor Wayne

More info?