Ha'Tzofim Australia Inc

Ha'Tzofim Australia Inc is a nonprofit youth organization based in Australia, affiliated with the Israeli Scouts youth movement. It was established in 2013 as the first branch of the Israeli Scouts outside Israel, beginning in Melbourne. The organization is dedicated to fostering a strong Jewish-Israeli-Australian identity among its members, primarily targeting native Hebrew speakers who have relocated to Australia. Its programs aim to address mental health challenges and social isolation often experienced by immigrants by creating a supportive community and structured activities[1][3].

Mission and Values

Ha'Tzofim Australia emphasizes the importance of cultural connection, social activity, leadership development, community belonging, and scouting traditions. It aims to strengthen meaningful ties to Israel while promoting engagement among Israeli peers living in Australia. The organization focuses on daily activities centered around sharing, togetherness, and supporting mental health, including cultural events, networking, and outdoor scouting activities[1][3].

Programs and Activities

The organization offers various scout groups and activities tailored for different communities and age groups, including:

• Shevet Onnot
• Shevet Shahar
• Shevet Hofim
• Shevet Brisbane
• Ksharim (targeting small communities)

These groups provide scouting experiences that integrate traditional scouting values with cultural heritage specific to Israeli youth[1].

Organizational Affiliation and Governance

Ha'Tzofim Australia Inc operates under the umbrella of the Australian Zionist Youth Council (AZYC) and complies with rigorous child safety and mental health standards. It is accredited by the Australian Childhood Foundation and follows safeguarding policies to ensure the wellbeing of its members. These affiliations reinforce its commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for youth development[1][3].

Background and Connection to the Hebrew Scouts Movement

Ha'Tzofim Australia is part of the global network inspired by the Hebrew Scouts Movement in Israel, which was founded in 1919 and is the largest youth movement in Israel with about 100,000 members. The Hebrew Scouts Movement is co-educational and known for its egalitarian approach, promoting equal participation among boys and girls. The Australian branch adapts these core values to serve the Israeli diaspora community in Australia, maintaining cultural and educational ties to Israel through scouting[3][5].

This organization plays an important role in supporting Israeli expatriate youth in Australia by fostering cultural identity, social bonds, and leadership through scouting activities rooted in Israeli heritage and global scouting traditions.

[1] https://www.hatzofim.org.au [2] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/8c04e55d-0b31-ea11-a812-000d3ad1ce4e/profile [3] https://www.hatzofim.org.au/about-us [4] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/8c04e55d-0b31-ea11-a812-000d3ad1ce4e/people [5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hebrew_Scouts_Movement_in_Israel