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AFTAU
Welcome to the Australian Friends of Tel Aviv University!
The role of the Australian Friends of Tel Aviv University (AFTAU) is to serve as a dynamic bridge between two inspired communities — Australian and Israeli.
AFTAU is a group committed to the nurturing of higher education, as well as the development of some of Israel’s best minds. For over four decades we have enthusiastically pursued the advancement of TAU in the world by raising money, awareness and influence.
In this way we can support Tel Aviv University’s vital role in changing lives that change the world.
What does AFTAU do?
Throughout the year and country, we offer a stimulating variety of cultural, social and educational activities: special briefings, international conferences, intimate get-togethers and more formal events. As an Australian Friend, you have access to some of the best leaders and thinkers from all over the world.
As part of a global network of Friends’ associations, what we do includes:
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- Raising awareness by publicising the University’s achievements and advancements in research, technology, humanities and innovation;
- Facilitating and strengthening academic and research partnerships, co-operation and collaborative ties with a variety of academic and scientific institutions in Australia and Israel;
- Creating scholarships to support learning and research, cultivate student and faculty exchanges and recruit Australian students to participate in the TAU International Program;
- Development and signing of new research collaboration agreements with Australian businesses and Tel Aviv University;
- Raising critical funds for the University to assist its educational and research goals and long-term development plans;
- Adding value to the local Australian Friends communities.
- Raising awareness by publicising the University’s achievements and advancements in research, technology, humanities and innovation;
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AFTAU’s activities support a large variety of projects at TAU
Traditionally, we have provided scholarships for financially underprivileged Israeli students from all backgrounds, including new immigrants and IDF Reservists.
We still do, but our activities have spread to encompass:
- Australian students looking to study in Israel.
- Direct support of research, both within TAU as well as collaborative research between TAU and Universities here. The AFTAM program with Monash University, was the first such endeavour.
- Purchases of new laboratory equipment at TAU such as mass spectrometers.
- Contributions towards capital projects.
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
Tel Aviv University (TAU) – Israel’s largest and most comprehensive institution of higher learning – is home to over 30,000 students studying in nine faculties and over 125 schools and departments across the spectrum of sciences, humanities and the arts.
Situated in Israel’s cultural, financial and technological capital, TAU shares Tel Aviv’s unshakable spirit of openness and innovation – and boasts a campus life as dynamic and pluralistic as the metropolis itself. Tel Aviv the city and Tel Aviv the university are one and the same – a thriving Mediterranean center of diversity and discovery.
Consistently ranked in the top 20 in the world in terms of scientific citations and among the top 100 universities internationally, Tel Aviv University is also Israel’s first choice for students, and its graduates are the most sought after by Israeli companies. Global in outlook and impact, TAU advances teaching and research that break down the walls between disciplines, striving to address the twenty-first century’s most pressing challenges through bold, interdisciplinary solutions.
TAU Publications
TAU Reviews
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Tel Aviv University – Annual Reports
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Our Chapters
Victoria
Tok Corporate Centre, Level 1,
459 Toorak Road, Toorak VIC 3142
Phone: +61 3 9296 2065
Email: [email protected]
New South Wales
Level 22, Westfield Tower 2, 101 Grafton Street, Bondi Junction NSW 2022
Phone: +61 418 465 556
Email: [email protected]
Leadership & Team:
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VICTORIA CHAPTER
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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 joined the executive of AFTAU and is now Deputy President
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Hayley Barron (NEXT GEN DEVELOPMENT MANAGER)
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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.
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Alex Bahar-Fuchs, PhD
Alex is a researcher and clinical neuropsychologist specialising in the field of cognitive ageing, and the co-leader of the CITE research group in the Department of Psychiatry, the University of Melbourne. His earlier research focused on early detection of cognitive decline and dementia, and over the past decade mainly on the development and evaluation of non-pharmacological interventions aimed at primary and secondary prevention of cognitive decline and dementia.
Alex’s research contributions have been recognised in the form of several awards, including a Churchill Fellowship, Alzheimer’s Australia Fellowship, and two consecutive Fellowships from the National Health and Medical Research Council. In January 2017, Alex Joined the Academic Unit for Psychiatry of Old Age at the University of Melbourne and he continues working as a clinician in private practice.
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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.
Ros’s involvement in the AFTAU Committee, now so ably led by our President Rosie Potaznik, has helped her to contribute to fundraising for and promoting the University in Australia, as well as participating more directly in the University itself. She hopes to be able to continue doing so for many years to come.
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Daniel Leighton
Daniel brings broad experience from the government and community sectors. Currently an executive in a Commonwealth government agency, he has worked in multiple community support organisations including seven years as a manager and General Manager with Jewish Care. Daniel is passionate about the impact of community organisations and has volunteered with many organisations including serving on the board of the Melbourne Hebrew Congregation and as the chair of the Lord Mayors Charitable Foundation. He and his wife Fiona have two children and a sometimes well-behaved labradoodle.
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Marcelo Maghidman
Marcelo is currently MSW course coordinator, unit co-coordinator, lecturer and researcher in the Social Work Department, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences at Monash University.
Marcelo has been an academic, consultant and counsellor for over 20 years. His Master Dissertation has been awarded a grant and published in Brazil. Marcelo has 5 other books published in the fields of Philosophy and Education, and also has produced a video-documentary on Education. Marcelo runs a successful private practice for more than two decades dedicated to mental health, existential/career counselling, and family issues. Marcelo holds special interest in ageing, drug and alcohol, and counselling skills education particularly through simulations.
Prior to his position at Monash University, he worked at Monash Health Drug & Alcohol service (SECADA) and NEAMI National Youth Residential Services. Marcelo is a volunteer in the aged care sector for over 25 years. Prior to his arrival to Australia, Marcelo has served as Vice-President of Brazilian Friends of TAU and one of its executive board members for a number of years.
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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.
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Rosie Potaznik
Rosie Potaznik attended the inauguration for the Buchmann Faculty of Law 25 years ago which was particularly special as her grandparents Eliezer and Chaya Buchmann, who lost their lives in the Holocaust were memoralised with a magnificent plaque at the entrance.
This honour gave Rosie the incentive to attend the Board of Governors meeting from 1994 and her passionate involvement with AFTAU followed. She was elected as a member of the Board of Governors at Tel Aviv University in May 2010.
Rosie was educated at Mount Scopus College. She studied Science and Psychology (Honours) and graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Bachelor of Social Work in 1977.
Rosie worked as a psychiatric social worker at the Royal Children’s Hospital, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Science in Melbourne. In July 1982 she delivered a paper on the Australian Perspective to Adoption at the International Child Psychiatry Conference in Dublin.
In 1983, Rosie wrote and published a book ‘Understanding Adoption ‘. The laws had changed at that time and the book was the first to explore adoptees’ search for their biological parents.
In 2006 Rosie Potaznik became a graduate of the inaugural Experience Bank Program, an initiative in community leadership .
Her communal experience lead to her voluntary involvement with the Jewish National Fund of Victoria which spanned over 14 years, during which she was Vice President for 8 years. Rosie’s highlight was organising walking tours and programs in the Negev and the North Galilee which focussed on water and environmental issues.
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PATRONS (click to view)
- Mark Leibler AC
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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
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René Spungin (MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER)
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Eva Landy (OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR)
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Roger Mendelson (PRESIDENT)
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NEW SOUTH WALES CHAPTER
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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.
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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.
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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).
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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.
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Yosi Tal
Yosi Tal is an experienced Managing Director with proven skills in marketing , negotiation, business planning and retail.
Yosi is recognised as the rug icon and his company, Designer Rugs, has become the foremost manufacturer and supplier of custom-made rugs and carpets in Australia, exporting rugs all over the world.
For three decades his company has created statement pieces for homes, offices, hotels, shopping malls and movie sets, collaborating with some of Australia’s foremost architects, designers and artists, including the late Harry Seidler, United States architect Eric Kuhne, Catherine Martin, Akira Isogawa and Minnie Pwerle. They have also teamed with award-winning designers like Hare + Klein, Greg Natale, and Catherine Martin to produce unique, contemporary hand-knotted rug collections.
Bespoke designs have been created for Qantas, Google, Microsoft, Lendlease, Westpac, Coca-Cola, Parliament House and Australian embassies worldwide.
Yosi has a strong interest in the Arts and philanthropy. He is also involved in the startup world with a seed investment in a biotechnology company.
Yosi is an alumnus of the University of Technology Sydney with a Bachelor of Business in Marketing.
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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.
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Andrew Silberberg (PRESIDENT)
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WESTERN AUSTRALIA CHAPTER
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Clive Donner (PRESIDENT)
Education: B Com (University of Natal South Africa 1979)
Business Interests and career:
Investment Banking and Private Equity career spanning 40 years in Australia and offshore.
LinQ Group 2005-Current
LinQ Group is Clive's privately owned business. Key activities include:
- Private Equity;
- Investment banking;
- Property development;
- Tech advisory and principle investing
Founded, managed and built 2 private equity vehicles: Golden Arrow Funds in 1997 (7-year closed end fund); LinQ Resources Fund in 2005 (Listed fund on ASX); Subsequently sold out his Private Equity interests in 2013 to Chinese buyers.
Co-founded 2 Property Development funds in 2015/2016 consisting of the development and sale of 2 residential apartment buildings (total of 250 apartments) in Australia.NM Rothschild & Sons (Australia) 1990-2004
Director of various Rothschild entities including: Executive Director of the main Rothschild Australian Group entity - NM Rothschild & Sons (Australia) Limited;
Executive Director of various Rothschild Australia Private Equity companies;
Head of Rothschilds debt financing business in in Western Australia;
Founded and ran Rothschild Australia’s first Private Equity Fund in the mining sector;
Responsible for Perth Office.Citibank South Africa and Citibank Australia 1980-1989
Responsible for building the debt financing business in Citibank’s offices in Johannesburg and Perth.
Relevant Philanthropy and Jewish interests
- Past Director of Perth Hebrew Congregation - main Orthodox Synagogue in Perth;
- United Israel Appeal Board of Governors and Major Donor since 2006;
- Newly elected President of Friends of Tel Aviv University (AFTAU) chapter in Western Australia and the inaugural establishment of this new Chapter in 2018 with primary focus on:
- raising awareness of Tel Aviv University (TAU) to both Jewish and non-Jewish audiences and hosting various Israeli business leaders in Perth;
- sourcing donations and student scholarships for TAU;
- sourcing corporate partnerships to collaborate with TAU on areas of interest;
- Building and expanding academic collaboration with local universities and TAU;
- Finance committee membership for Maurice Zeffert (Inc) old age home in 2018
- Board of Governors of AFTAU since 2019
- Founded the formation of the Federal AFTAU entity: Australian AFTAU Pty Ltd in 2020
Phone: +61411223550
Email: [email protected]
Web address: www.thelinQgroup.com
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Executive Members
Melanie Greenfeld
Peter Leedman
Geoff Morris
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Clive Donner (PRESIDENT)
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NATIONAL OFFICE
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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.
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David Solomon – (CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER)
TAU Board of Governors
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Keith Beville
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David Dinte
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Clive Donner
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John Gandel, AC Hon.PhD. (TAU)
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Jenny Hillman
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Roslyn Kushinsky
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John Landerer, AM, CBE
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Dr. Gustav Lehrer, AM
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Mark Leibler, AC
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Sir Frank Lowy, AC
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Roger Mendelson
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Dr. Harry Perelberg
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Rosie Potaznik
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Evi Selwyn
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Andrew Silberberg
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Vivien Zimmet
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Professor Paul Zimmet Hon.PhD. (TAU)
Honorary Governors
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Gad Ben-Meir
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Abe Monester, QC
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The Hon Howard Nathan AM QC
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Dr. Victor Wayne
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More info?
- by Phone: +61 39296 2065
- Email: [email protected]
- or write us HERE
CONTACT
CONTACT
Study at TAU
Study at TAU
Ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime in a city where ancient history meets cutting-edge innovation?
The Lowy International School offers English-taught programs that give you access to the best of TAU’s top-tier academics and provides close connections to institutions and companies in Israel and worldwide. You’ll be able to enjoy all of this in the heart of Tel Aviv, the Mediterranean city that never stops.
Why TAU?
Tel Aviv University (TAU) is Israel’s largest and most comprehensive institution of higher learning; it is home to over 30,000 students studying in 9 faculties and over 125 schools and departments across the spectrum of sciences, humanities and the arts.
Situated in Tel Aviv, Israel’s cultural, financial and technological capital, TAU shares the city’s unshakable spirit of openness and innovation – and boasts a campus life as dynamic and pluralistic as the metropolis itself. Tel Aviv the city and Tel Aviv the university are one and the same – a thriving Mediterranean center of diversity and discovery.
The Lowy International School
Every year, Tel Aviv University hosts thousands of international students studying in English through The Lowy International School.
The school provides students with the choice of more than 60 academic programs that range from a semester, summer or year abroad to full degrees at the Bachelor’s and Master’s levels as well as PhD and Post-Doctoral programs. All these programs are designed specifically for international students by The Lowy International School.
Programs
The Lowy International School programs are academically rigorous and culturally inspiring.
Consistently ranked in the top 20 in the world in terms of scientific citations and among the top 100 universities internationally, Tel Aviv University is also Israel’s first choice for students, and its graduates are the most sought after by Israeli companies. Global in outlook and impact, TAU advances teaching and research that break down the walls between disciplines, striving to address the twenty-first century’s most pressing challenges through bold, interdisciplinary solutions.
Discover all the programs
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
ELI GAP YEAR PROGRAM
The Exploration, Leadership and Innovation (ELI) program – a groundbreaking leadership gap-year initiative aimed at empowering Jewish youth worldwide. Spearheaded by esteemed diplomat, entrepreneur, and academic Dr. Ronen Hoffman, ELI revolutionizes the traditional gap-year experience by offering a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum infused with Jewish identity and engagement with Israel’s vibrant culture.
The program offers academic for-credit classes across diverse fields including Israel and the Middle East, Jewish Peoplehood, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Environment and Sustainability, Science and Human Thought. Classroom instruction is combined with immersive experiences, mentorship with Israeli public figures, service-learning projects, Hebrew language instruction and extracurricular activities.
For the ELI Gap Year program exceptional candidates will have the opportunity to secure merit-based scholarships. ELI students may also be eligible for MASA Israel Journey Grants.
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.
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.
Explore the foundations of humanity where past and future meet, with a truly multidisciplinary approachdesigned to nurture grounded leaders and innovators.
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.
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.
Get a degree B.Mus. in four years, for instrumental and vocal departments, and truly learn to play the universal language of mankind.
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.
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.
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.
Scholarships
Students who have been accepted by TAU for an exchange program but who have not yet commenced their studies are eligible to apply for scholarship support from AFTAU to be used for accommodation expenses up to a maximum of $2000. AFTAU exchange scholarship applications will be granted at the discretion of AFTAU.
- Scholarship support for students undertaking fee-paying courses at TAU – students wishing to attend or have been accepted for full fee paying courses at TAU, are eligible to apply for scholarship support. The support varies based on the duration of the course and its fees and will be assessed on an individual basis.
- Exchange Student Assistance – for students enrolled at Australian universities undertaking exchange semesters at TAU.
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For information regarding AFTAU Scholarships please contact us
- by Phone: +61 39296 2065 or
- Email: [email protected]
All academic units & programs @ TAU
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TAU’s Uniform to University Scholarship Fund
TAU’s Scholarship Fund
When duty called, they came. Now, it’s up to us to help them return to class and become the bright future of Israel.
Over 6,600 Tel Aviv University students have been called to serve in the reserves and will need to transition back to the studies and lives they put on hold to defend their country. We must ensure that our returning students, our heroes, have the academic and financial assistance they need to succeed in their studies and fulfill their dreams. Help our students follow their true calling to become the professionals, scientists, and leaders of Israel’s future.
They risked their lives for us. Donate today to give back to them.
*$3800 will fund a full Uniform to University Student Scholarship for an academic year.
*$2300 will fund intensive, personalised academic tutoring for a single student for the year.
*$3800 will fund a full Uniform to University Student Scholarship for an academic year.
*$2300 will fund intensive, personalised academic tutoring for a single student for the year.
ABN 66 309 569 145
Donations above $2 are tax deductible.
Funds will be disbursed by AFTAU Welfare LTD in accordance with its deed.
EVERY DONATION COUNTS.
THANK YOU AUSTRALIAN FRIENDS FOR YOUR SUPPORT.
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Yonathan
Age: 27
Rank: Captain
Military role: Tank platoon commander in Gaza
Studies: BSc in Chemistry and Materials Science
Calling: Researcher“You are too busy focusing on the mission and your team to even miss home – you don’t have that luxury.”
Even before Yonatan was called up for reserve duty on Oct. 7, he rushed to join his unit in southern Israel. Yonatan was wounded in combat and is now recuperating at home in Tel Aviv. He is looking forward to resuming his TAU studies.
“My goal is to become an R&D scientist in energy applications,” he says.
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Carmel
Age: 26
Rank: Captain
Military role: National Aid Battalion, Homefront Command
Studies: BA Theater Arts
Calling: ActressWhen Carmel got called up, she immediately headed to her base where she has served for three months straight assisting citizens affected by the war. “These are tough times for us,” Carmel says, “and we try to help as much as we can.”
She’s looking forward to returning to studies and says that, with a little scholarship help, she will be able to pursue her dream of becoming an actress and “making people smile.”
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Avraham
Age: 31
Rank: Major
Military role: Company commander, Infantry
Studies: BSc Electrical Engineering
Calling: Inventor“We’ve been fighting for three months straight but I’m willing to pay this price.”
Avraham studies electrical engineering as part of TAU’s Trailblazers Program, a specially tailored framework for students coming out of the Haredi (Ultra-Orthodox) educational system who wish to earn a university degree. His classmate in his BSc studies, Itzhak, also in Trailblazers, was his second-in-command in the combat in Gaza – “his being there with me gave me strength,” says Avraham.
Originally from Tivon, Avraham parted from the Haredi community at age 23, in the middle of his military service as an officer. He says that engineering fascinates him, and that he dreams of inventing something that will improve people’s lives.
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Gil
Age: 32
Rank: Sergeant First Class
Military role: Combat soldier in Yahalom–Special Operations Engineering Unit
Studies: MD + PhD
Calling: Doctor & cancer researcherAt the start of the war, Gil was urgently drafted to Gaza where he served with his unit for 40 days. They searched for, scanned and destroyed tunnels, bombed suspicious sites, dismantled explosives, and gathered intelligence – all under missile attacks and enemy gunfire.
“More happened in three days of war than my entire three-and-a-half years of regular IDF service,” Gil says.
Gil recounts that during missions, he thought about his family, his friends, his academic and medical pursuits and everything that he was defending. He believes Israel is strong and resilient, and looks forward to serving his country in another way – as a physician-scientist.
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Omer
Age: 26
Rank: Sergeant Major
Military role: Technology and Maintenance Corp
Studies: BA Management & Economics
Calling: Entrepreneur“When we were called to duty, it was very clear to me I needed to drop everything and show up.”
Omer was on vacation in Eilat when Iron Swords broke out. He immediately left the beach behind to join his unit in the IDF reserve forces.
Omer hopes to become an entrepreneur and make his mark on the Startup Nation.
“It was a very uniting experience,” he says. “Although there has been so much sadness, we only have one country and I feel privileged to be part of defending it.”
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Yarin
Age: 25
Rank: Captain
Military role: Combat Engineering Frontline Unit HR Manager
Studies: BSc Industrial Engineering
Calling: Engineer
EVERY DONATION COUNTS.
THANK YOU AUSTRALIAN FRIENDS FOR YOUR SUPPORT.
75 for 75 Scholarship Campaign
Israel’s massive investment in education has been critical in successfully positioning the Jewish State as the “Startup Nation” in technology, innovation, agriculture, biomedicine, and many other areas.
Tel Aviv University has been a key driver in this growth and leadership over decades.
We invite you to celebrate Israel’s 75th anniversary with the gift of education by participating in our 75-for-75 scholarship campaign so that students like the ones below can fulfill their dreams of higher education.
We encourage you to watch their short videos so you can hear their personal stories and learn from them why providing financial support to worthy students is vital to strengthening Israel’s future.”
PLEASE SUPPORT A STUDENT HERE …
Meet Our Students
Growing up as the seventh of nine children in a single-parent family, Hodaya didn’t imagine a future that included higher education.
“Receiving a scholarship helped me believe that I deserve to be here, that TAU is my place, too.”
• • • Hodaya Levy Rublin
Nursing
Click here to read the full story and a short video
A first-generation university student, Bat-El doesn’t take scholarship support for granted.
“My parents made aliyah from Ethiopia and they are so proud of me.”
• • • Bat El Bogala
Psychology & English Literature
Click here to read the full story and a short video
A native of Tzfat, Yakir hopes to use his lawyer skills to help workers from Israel’s social and geographic periphery.
“I want to put into practice what I’ve been planning for so long: to give back and effect positive social change.”
• • • Yakir Mazuz
Law
Click here to read the full story
A father of baby triplets, David couldn’t finance his graduate studies alone.
“Scholarships help people change the world,” he says.
• • • David Bodenheim
Law
Click here to read the full story and a short video
“I used to doubt that I would even graduate high school let alone enter university,” says Kochava, who is now part of the prestigious Schulich Leadership program.
• • • Kochava Pavlov
Math & Computer Science
Click here to read the full story and a short video
“I am one of many other students who wouldn’t be here without scholarship help. It’s 100% necessary and appreciated,” says Eitan, who arrived from Mexico and now lives in Israel.
• • • Eitan Rozen
Sofaer Global MBA
Click here to read the full story
Your valuable contribution will help those who need it most
Please make your tax-deductible donation here
or call (03) 9296 2066
Scholarship Fund in memory of the late Walter Kastelan
AFTAU Scholarship Campaign
In memory of Walter Kastelan z”l
AFTAU Treasurer and TAU Governor
The AFTAU Scholarship Fund has been established in honour of Walter’s passion for education and dedication to Tel Aviv University.
The Walter Kastelan Periphery Scholarship Fund launched in 2021, has boosted accessibility to higher education among Israelis from disadvantaged backgrounds and outlying communities.
The Periphery Program recruits high school students based on their achievements relative to their classmates, rather than on standardized admissions tests that pitch them against privileged peers from the country’s wealthier central region.
It provides financial, academic, emotional and social support alongside career and employment guidance. In return, students perform community service.
Your generous support can make a world of difference in securing a
brighter future for a disadvantaged student.
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
PRIVACY POLICY
This website (our Website) is owned and operated by Australian Friends of Tel Aviv University (AFTAU) (we, us and our).
By using our Website, you agree to be bound by this Privacy Policy. If you do not agree with this Privacy Policy, do not use our Website.
This Privacy Policy explains our approach to dealing with your Personal Information. We set out how we collect, hold, manage and use Personal Information, including when you visit, interact with or use our Website.
We may update our Privacy Policy from time to time by posting a new version on our Website and it will be binding on you and us from the date it is posted on our Website.
Scope of policy
- This Privacy Policy applies to all Personal Information we hold.
- “Personal Information” under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) (the Privacy Act) is defined to mean information or an opinion (including information or an opinion forming part of a database), whether true or not, and whether recorded in a material form or not, about an individual whose identity is apparent, or can reasonably be ascertained, from the information or opinion.
Your consent
- By using our Website and/or accessing our services, you consent to us using any Personal Information that we collect for any of the purposes set out in this Privacy Policy.
Collection of Personal Information
Why do we collect Personal Information?
- We collect and hold Personal Information that is reasonably necessary for the services we provide.
How do we collect Personal Information?
- We will generally collect Personal Information from you directly through your use of our Website including when you visit, access, contact us or use other services provided on our Website.
- We may also collect Personal Information through applications, email or other communication with you, or through a face-to-face meeting or telephone conversation with you.
What form of Personal Information do we collect?
- We may collect and hold the following types of Personal Information:
- Your name;
- Your date of birth;
- Age range;
- Your gender;
- Your phone number;
- Your nationality;
- Your email address;
- Your mailing address and delivery address;
- Job title;
- Organisation with which you are affiliated as an employee, contractor or agent;
- Payment details; and
- Information provided by you when you use or request other services available on our Website.
- In the course of providing our services to you, we may also collect and hold more detailed personal information as required to perform our services.
- If you choose to correspond with us through email, we may retain the content of your email messages together with your email address and our responses. We provide the same protections for these electronic communications that we employ in the maintenance of information received by mail and telephone.
Retaining your Personal Information
- We will retain your personal information for the duration of your use of the Website. When you cease use of the Website we will retain your Personal Information for no longer than 7 years or for any such period that it is necessary for us to retain your Personal Information (the Retention Period).
- We will make your personal Information available to you if requested.
Destruction of your Personal Information
- Once the Retention Period has lapsed, we will ensure the timely and secure destruction and/or disposal of your Personal Information, including both physical information and cyber information.
- If at any other time, you request we destroy and/or dispose of your Personal Information, we will comply with your request in a timely matter, to the extent that it does not interfere with the conduct of our business.
Breach of Personal Information
Security of your Personal Information
- We will endeavour to protect your Personal Information from unauthorised interference (including access or disclosure).
Informing you of a Data Breach
- A data breach will occur if there has been unauthorised interference to your Personal Information, and that interference is likely to result in serious harm to you (Data Breach).
- If there is a Data Breach, we will determine if the Data Breach has caused or is likely to cause serious harm. If we determine that serious harm has or will be caused, we will notify you and the relevant reporting body of the Data Breach.
How we use your Personal Information
- We collect, use and disclose Personal Information for purposes associated with conducting our business, providing services to you, marketing and promotional efforts, and to improve our content and service offerings, including:
- Facilitating services between you and us, entities associated with us and/or third-party individuals and organisations who we work with or alongside to provide services to you;
- Monitoring the use of our Website;
- Improving the quality of our service;
- Administrative purposes;
- Marketing communications purposes;
- Processing of donations;
- Statistical analysis of the usage of our Website; and
- Complying with the law, including privacy legislation.
- Occasionally, we may also use the Personal Information we collect to notify you about important changes to our Website and new services we think you will find valuable. You may notify us at any time if you do not wish to receive these offers by emailing us at the link provided on notifications, or by contacting us at our contact email address at the end of this policy.
Direct marketing
- If you have given us your express consent to:
- Provide you with direct marketing communications; or
- Provide your Personal Information to third party individuals and organisations who we work with or alongside to provide services to you),
we may collect, hold, use and disclose Personal Information in accordance with that consent to enable us (or those third-party individuals and organisations, as the case may be) to provide you information about, and offer you, goods and services.
- If you give us consent to provide you with direct marketing communications, you can later request not to receive direct marketing communications. You may also request that we do not provide your Personal Information to any of our third party providers in order for them to provide you with direct marketing communications.
Disclosure
- Such information may be shared with others as de-identified data in aggregated form.
- Personally-identifiable information or business information will not be shared with third parties except as required by law or where you have given us your express consent to do so.
- We may need to provide your Personal Information to third parties who we engage to assist us to provide goods and services to you, such as:
- Service providers who we engage to assist us in providing services to you;
- Information technology service providers; and
- Payment processors.
- Where your Personal Information is disclosed to these third parties, they will only be authorised to use your Personal Information for the purpose that we supplied it to them. If those third parties are located overseas, then your Personal Information may be transferred overseas.
Cookies and data activity
- We may use standard technology called ‘cookies’ and similar technologies on our Website. Cookies are small data files that are stored on your computer when you visit a particular app or website, which allow your web browser to remember certain information.
- By using our Website, you agree to our use of cookies and our Website will issue cookies as soon as you visit our Website. You may disable cookies by turning them off in your browser, however some functions of our Website may not be available to you if you do this.
- Sometimes information that you upload is provided with associated metadata. If you do not want us to use the metadata you must remove it before uploading it onto our Website and other applications and tools.
- We may collect data that is associated with your visit, including the pages you visit, the activities you do and the purchases you make etc. We may also collect information relating to the mobile phone or other device including the device type, the browser, location, IP address and search words used. We may collect, use and disclose and store this information in any of the ways set out in this Privacy Policy.
Data security and storage
- Personal Information collected by us will be stored and processed on servers located within Australia. To prevent unauthorised access, maintain data accuracy, and ensure the correct use of information, we have put in place appropriate physical, electronic, and managerial procedures to safeguard and secure the information we collect online.
- In other limited circumstances, we may need to send your Personal Information overseas. These circumstances include:
- Where we have a supplier assisting us with the provision of goods and services and our business functions; and
- Where a third-party application is being used in connection with our interactions with you.
- We will take all reasonable steps to maintain the security of Personal Information in these circumstances in accordance with this Privacy Policy, but our ability to ultimately control where these third-party providers host their applications or process their data may be limited.
Links to other applications and websites
- Our Website may contain links to other applications, websites and tools that are not owned, controlled or operated by us. We are not responsible for the practices employed by applications linked to or from our Website or the information or content contained on them.
- Please remember that when you use a link to go from our Website to another application, our Privacy Policy is no longer in effect. Your browsing and interaction on any other application, including applications that have a link on our Website, is subject to that application’s own rules and policies. Please read over those rules and policies before proceeding.
Legal disclosure of Personal Information
- We reserve the right to disclose any Personal Information which identifies you as required by law and when we believe that disclosure is necessary to protect our rights, or to comply with a judicial proceeding, court order, or legal process served on our Website.
How to opt-out or access your Personal Information
- If you:
- Want to find out what Personal Information we hold about you;
- Believe any of your Personal Information held by us is inaccurate, out of date, incomplete or it is not necessary for us to continue to hold it;
- Want to request not to receive direct marketing communications or that we do not provide your Personal Information to any of our third party providers in order for them to provide you with direct marketing communications; or
- Wish to make a complaint about a breach of the Privacy Act, Australian Privacy Principles or a privacy code that applies to us,
please contact us by emailing us at our contact email address at the end of this policy.
- If you are not happy with our response, you may complain directly to the Australian Privacy Commissioner.
Contact us
- For any queries, complaints or requests regarding this policy or our handling or use of your Personal Information, please contact us at [email protected].
TERMS OF USE
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Introduction
By using the pages in this site, you agree to the Terms of Use presented here. If you do not agree to these Terms of Use, you should not use this site. These Terms of Use may be changed or updated from time to time. You may wish to print this page for future reference. Copyright © AFTAU
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Contact
If you have any queries regarding these Terms of Use or about AFTAU, please contact us at:
Address: Tok Corporate Centre, Level 1, 459 Toorak Road, Toorak VIC 3142 AUSTRALIA
Phone: +61 3 9296 2065
Email: [email protected]
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Definitions
The abbreviation “AFTAU” used in this site refers to The Australian Friends of Tel Aviv University. “You” refers to any user of this site.
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Personal Use
AFTAU grants you non-exclusive, non-transferable, limited right to access, view, use, display and print information on this web site, including all the materials provided hereon, for your personal and non-commercial use only.
You may not copy, modify, reproduce, create derivative works from, distribute, transmit, license, or sell any content or any portion of this site without the prior express written consent from AFTAU. You agree not to interrupt, or attempt to interrupt, the operation of AFTAU’s site. You warrant that you will not use this AFTAU site for any purpose that is unlawful or prohibited by these Terms of Use.
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Copyright and Trademark
All AFTAU material, including without limitation the trademarks and related marks, text, images, software applications, audio or video clips, and database content are owned and controlled by AFTAU, which retains all right, title and interest in and to AFTAU Content.
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Links to Other Sites
This site may contain links to other Web sites operated and maintained by parties other than AFTAU. AFTAU does not control such other websites and is not responsible for their contents. Such links are provided for your convenience only.
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Customer Service
You may contact us for assistance, queries or problems which you may incur through the use of this website.
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Charitable Donations
In the event that you make use of a AFTAU site to make a charitable contribution or payment for an event, you will receive an automated confirmation. Any queries should be directed to the AFTAU’s office on +61 3 9296 2065.
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Privacy
AFTAU’s website conforms to the highest standards of privacy protection for site users. For details of our online practices regarding the privacy and security of your information, see our Privacy Statement.
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Disclaimer of Warranty
The information and materials contained on AFTAU’s website are provided “as is” without warranty of any kind and AFTAU in particular makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy, timeliness, completeness, merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose of any such services or information.
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Limitation of Liability
Use of information in any portion of AFTAU content for any purposes is solely at the risk of the user. News sources do not warrant the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of any news releases or leadership briefings and make no guarantees, express or implied, including those of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Poll results stated on the site are not scientific. The sole responsibility of AFTAU’s web content sources is use of their best efforts to correct any fact, timing or omission brought to their attention.
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Modifications
AFTAU reserves the right to change these Terms of Use at any time. Any modification is effective immediately upon posting to the website.
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Entire Agreement
This agreement constitutes the entire agreement between you and a participating AFTAU web site with respect to this website, and it supersedes all prior such agreements.