Assyrian National Council - Australia Inc.

End of Year Dinner - Assyrian National Council - Australia Inc. & The Young Assyrians

On 5 December 2025, the Assyrian National Council–Australia, together with our youth wing, The Young Assyrians (TYA), proudly hosted our annual End of Year Dinner. The evening brought together dedicated members, volunteers, partners, and friends of our community for a warm and memorable celebration.

The gathering was a meaningful reflection on a year defined by service, unity, and collective achievement. It provided an opportunity to recognise the hard work and commitment of those who have contributed to advancing our mission and strengthening our community throughout 2025. Sharing this occasion reaffirmed the spirit of collaboration and purpose that underpins all that we do.

As we enter the festive season, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who gave their time, energy, and support over the past year. We wish you and your families a blessed and joyful Christmas, and a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year.

Strengthening National Relationships - A visit from Sweden

In late November and early December 2025, the Assyrian National Council–Australia welcomed Mr. Yousif Bet Yousif, Member of the Assyrian Parliament from Sweden, during his official and social visit to Sydney and Melbourne. Throughout his stay, he met with community members and representatives of our national, cultural, and social institutions to discuss the needs of the Assyrian community and ways to enhance coordinated national work.

Mr. Bet Yousif was joined in Sydney by fellow Parliament Members Mr. Sargon D. Dadisho and Mr. Anwia Sadeq, where discussions focused on strengthening cooperation with local institutions and building sustainable channels of engagement with Australian political parties.

During one of the key meetings, Mr. Hermiz Shahen presented a brief history of Assyrian national work in Australia since the 1970s, highlighting decades of community dedication. A follow-up meeting was held on Thursday, November 27, at the Assyrian National Council, where conversations continued about future collaboration and the development of stronger national relations.

Assyrian National Council – Australia Inc. Public Statement on the Devastating Attack at Chanukah by the Sea, Bondi Beach

The Assyrian National Council – Australia Inc. (ANCA) issues this public statement following the devastating attack at Chanukah by the Sea at Bondi Beach. We express our deep concern and solidarity with the Jewish community during what should have been a joyful celebration of faith, culture, and unity.

Violence, hatred, and intimidation have no place in our society. Acts that target individuals or communities based on their religion or identity strike at the very heart of Australia’s multicultural fabric. Every community has the right to gather, worship, and celebrate in safety and peace.

As a community that understands the pain of persecution and the importance of religious freedom, we stand firmly against antisemitism and all forms of hatred. We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to social cohesion, mutual respect, and the protection of fundamental freedoms, including the freedom of faith.

In moments such as these, we must stand together, united across faiths and backgrounds, to reject division and uphold the values of tolerance, dignity, and shared humanity that define our nation.

Engaging with the Sabian Mandaean Community

On Friday, 9 January 2026, the Assyrian National Council–Australia had the honour of welcoming a delegation from the Sabian Mandaean Council to our office, alongside representatives from The Young Assyrians. The visiting delegation, Mr Rami Al-Zuhairi, Mr Karam Al-Zuhairi, Mr Wisam Maani, and Mr Sameh Al-Obaidi, was received with warmth and respect as both communities came together in a spirit of shared purpose.

The meeting celebrated the enduring historical ties between Assyrians and Sabian Mandaeans, two of Iraq’s most ancient indigenous peoples. Bound by a legacy of resilience in the face of persecution and displacement, both communities reflected on the vital importance of preserving identity, heritage, and cultural continuity.

Discussions centred on strengthening collaboration across cultural, community, and youth initiatives, and on building bridges that honour our distinct traditions while highlighting our shared roots in Mesopotamia.

This gathering was more than a formal visit; it marked a meaningful step toward deeper cooperation and a reaffirmation that unity among indigenous communities amplifies our collective voice. We look forward to continuing this dialogue in the spirit of mutual respect, coexistence, and shared history.

Welcoming the Seyfo Centre to the Assyrian National Council - Australia Inc. Office

On 23 January 2026, the Assyrian National Council–Australia had the distinct honour of welcoming Dr Ramina Jajoo-Frindrich, President of the Seyfo Centre (Arizona Chapter), to our offices. She was warmly received by Hermiz Shahen, President of ANCA, alongside members of The Young Assyrians, marking an important moment of collaboration between our organisations.

The discussion focused on the vital work of the Seyfo Centre in researching the Assyrian genocide, preserving irreplaceable primary-source archival materials, and ensuring these resources remain accessible to researchers, academics, and all those committed to understanding Assyrian history, human rights, and the broader struggles of indigenous communities.

This visit served as a meaningful reminder of our shared responsibility to safeguard historical truth, strengthen the documentation of our collective past, and support future generations in their pursuit of knowledge, justice, and cultural continuity. It underscored the enduring importance of collaboration between organisations dedicated to preserving history, promoting awareness, and advocating for human rights.

We look forward to continuing this partnership, working together to ensure that the stories, experiences, and lessons of the Assyrian people remain visible, remembered, and honoured.