Assyrian National Council - Australia Inc.

Policy Summit on the Future of the Nineveh Plains

One of the highlights of the Policy Summit on the Future of the Nineveh Plains at Australian Parliament House was the keynote address delivered by Mr Hermiz Shahen, President of the Assyrian National Council – Australia Inc.

Speaking before parliamentarians, policymakers and community leaders, Mr Shahen outlined the challenges facing the Indigenous Assyrian people in their ancestral homeland and called for continued international support to ensure the security, dignity and future of the Nineveh Plains. His address reinforced that the protection of the Nineveh Plains is not only an Assyrian issue, but one of human rights, religious freedom and the preservation of one of the world's oldest living civilisations.

Community Consultation for the Policy Summit

Ahead of the Policy Summit on the Future of the Nineveh Plains, representatives from Assyrian organisations gathered at the Assyrian National Council – Australia (ANCA) office for a Community Consultation Meeting.

The consultation provided an opportunity for community leaders and stakeholders to discuss the Summit's objectives, key policy priorities and the outcomes it seeks to achieve. It was a valuable forum for constructive dialogue, with attendees sharing ideas, perspectives and recommendations to help shape this important national initiative.

The Assyrian National Council – Australia and The Young Assyrians extend their sincere thanks to every organisation and representative who participated. The strong engagement demonstrated our community's shared commitment to working together to advance the future of the Nineveh Plains and strengthen advocacy on behalf of the Assyrian people.

As preparations continued, we looked forward to welcoming parliamentarians, policymakers, academics, advocates and community leaders to Australian Parliament House on 1 July 2026 for this landmark policy summit.

Meeting with the Embassy of Israel

Representatives of the Assyrian National Council – Australia Inc. were honoured to welcome His Excellency Ambassador Hillel Newman and Deputy Ambassador Amir Meron for a constructive meeting with President Hermiz Shahen and members of the Council.

The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss the rich history of the Assyrian people, the challenges facing our community today, and the longstanding friendship between the Assyrian and Israeli peoples. It also reaffirmed the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation on issues of mutual interest.

We sincerely thank Ambassador Newman and Deputy Ambassador Meron for their time, friendship and ongoing support. We look forward to strengthening the relationship between our communities and continuing our engagement in the years ahead.

Celebrating Israel’s 78th Independence Day

The Assyrian National Council – Australia Inc. was honoured to attend the celebration marking the 78th Independence Day of the State of Israel, organised by the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies.

On this special occasion, we extend our sincere congratulations to the Australian Jewish community and our best wishes to the people of Israel as they celebrate the resilience, achievements and enduring spirit of their nation.

We also reaffirm the importance of friendship and cooperation between our communities and express our hope for continued peace, stability and prosperity for the people of Israel and the wider region.