Jeremy Jones AM, whose recent passing has been keenly felt in the community, was a prominent Jewish community leader and interfaith activist who dedicated his life to fostering unity and understanding among people of diverse backgrounds, faiths and experiences.

As a tireless advocate for multiculturalism and social harmony, Jeremy envisioned an Australia that could serve as a beacon of constructive multiculturalism for the world to emulate. In his lifetime, Jeremy was at the forefront in exposing and fighting antisemitism, racial hatred, and bigotry for almost five decades. He was a leading figure in interfaith and multicultural activities and reconciliation with Australia’s First Nations people.

Jeremy served in many formal leadership roles in his community. He was former President of and life member of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry and a long-time servant of the Australia-Israel and Jewish Affairs Council. He was deeply respected for his erudition, his “sparkling conversation,” and eagerness to teach and debate.

Throughout his life, Jeremy got to know thousands of leaders from various faiths. He was motivated to understand what made people believe what they do, and what made them the people they become. To this end, Jeremy travelled the world to discover, participate in debates, and engage in the constant battle to combat prejudice and hate.

He had the rare ability to communicate his ideas widely to a range of different audiences and was a firm believer in establishing dialogue and affairs between individuals and groups of different faiths. He was the first Australian to serve on the board of the International Jewish Committee for Interreligious Consultations, an organisation that represents world Jewry in dialogue with the Vatican, the World Council of Churches and the Muslim World League.

Jeremy infused every aspect of his endeavours with profound humility, virtue, and an unwavering commitment to the inherent rights of individuals. He was knowns for his regular attire of kippot and ties adorned with Indigenous artwork, showcasing his solidarity with Australia’s First Nations while illustrating how his Jewish faith inspired his compassion for all humanity.

Jeremy was also a deeply respected mentor and friend, who generously shared his wise counsel and experience to many younger leaders of the Jewish community.  Jeremy’s friendships were described as “deep and real,” forged in humility, curiosity and humour. He is affectionately remembered for his personal warmth, desire to connect, and kindness for those in need.

His tireless advocacy did not go unnoticed. In 2007, Jeremy was awarded the Australian Human Rights Medal, and in 2016, he was honoured with the prestigious Stepan Kerkyasharian AO Medal for Community Harmony. Jeremy’s principled determination was an inspiration to many. His efforts have had a tangible and lasting impact on community cohesion in NSW, Australia and globally.

Beyond numerous roles and titles thereafter, Jeremy distinguished himself as a leader of unique standing through his tireless efforts to build bridges between multicultural communities and to confront all forms of racism and discrimination.

Jeremy’s impact extended far beyond the confines of his professional roles. Described as a man of tremendous intellect and warmth, he possessed a rare ability to connect with others on a personal level, transcending boundaries of faith and ethnicity. His infectious enthusiasm and principled determination inspired countless individuals. Leaving an enduring legacy of compassion and goodwill.

He left behind a loving family and tremendous legacy of inspiration to all.