From

1927

Occupations

Religious organisation, Lobby group, Philanthropic organisation, Membership organisation and Women's Rights Organisation

Alternative Names

• Melbourne Council of Jewish Women

Website

http://www.ncjw.org.au/index.html

Location

NCJW Victorian Section Inc.: PO Box 2220, Caulfield Junction , Vic. 3161. Tel. (03) 9523 0535 or 0536. Fax. (03) 9523 0156. ncjwvic@netlink.com.au

Summary

The Melbourne Council of Jewish Women (from 1929 the National Council of Jewish Women, Victoria Section) was established in 1927 at a meeting held at the home Fanny Reading's parents (Reading had established the first Council of Jewish Women in New South Wales in 1923). Within a week the Council boasted 80 members. The founding president was Marie Patkin.

A Junior Section of the Council was established in 1929, which held numerous social events (after WWII this re-established as the Social Set and later Alma). From the outset, the Council raised money for numerous local and international Jewish causes and relief efforts, and concerned itself with migrant welfare work. Since the establishment of Israel, the Council has supported numerous programs for the new Jewish State.

During WWII, they contributed to the broader Australian war effort in a similar fashion to most women's organisations of this time. In the years after the war, much of the Council's effort was direct towards assisting with the settlement of new migrants. There were also numerous fund raising activities and other social services such as Meals on Wheels, and support for those with disabilities. From the 1970s, issues relating to the status of women generally have also been a focus.

Over its long history, the Council has been involved in an enormous array of issues, as well as charitable, educational and social activities. The Council continues today as a non-profit, voluntary, organisation for Jewish women, acting for their advancement and for social justice generally.

Sources used to compile this entry: Newton, Marlo Leigh, Making a Difference: A History of the National Council of Jewish Women of Australia, Hybrid Publishers, Melbourne, 2000, 342 pp.