Australia–Israel relations

Australia-Israel relations

Australia	Israel

Australia has warm and close relations with Israel, which are supported strongly by Australia’s active Jewish community. The relationship has a strong historical dimension, dating back to the First World War when Australian forces fought in the region, including in modern-day Israel, alongside their Allied Counterparts against the Ottomans. Australia was the first country to vote in favour of the 1947 UN partition resolution.

Australia supports a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that recognises Israel's right to exist in peace and also meets the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people.

Australia and Israel have a healthy commercial relationship with two-way trade worth $828 million (2006-2007). Our major merchandise export to Israel is coal ($53 million) followed by live animal trading ($41 million) and pearls and gems ($12 million – all figures 2006-2007). There are opportunities for Australian companies to take greater advantage of Israel’s knowledge-based technologically advanced economy – particularly in areas of biotechnology, ICT, education and training. Investment is also growing. We encourage Israeli companies to view Australia as a regional base and as a supplier of sophisticated goods and services.