Journalist - Commentator - Philanthropist
Media Coverage and Recognition
Sam Lipski's contributions to journalism, philanthropy, and community leadership have been widely recognized in Australian and international media.
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Contact UsCOMMUNAL icon Sam Lipski is "a bit overwhelmed and emotional" about being recognised as an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for his many years of exceptional service in the field of strategic philanthropy, education and relations between Australia and Israel.
The AO comes in addition to Lipski's recognition as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 1993 for services to the media by the veteran journalist, commentator and former editor-in-chief of The Australian Jewish News.
Lipski's AO is arguably one of only a few subsequent Australia Day honours bestowed on an individual for a separate field of endeavour. It is believed to be the first one made for strategic philanthropy.
Sam Lipski and Suzanne D Rutland's groundbreaking book "Let My People Go" was awarded the Prime Minister's Literary Award in the Australian History category. Judges praised the work as "thoroughly researched and superbly written."
Literary AchievementMonash University awarded Sam Lipski an honorary Doctor of Laws degree, recognizing him as "one of the outstanding Australians of his generation" for his contributions to journalism, education, philanthropy, and public life.
Academic HonorCoverage of Sam Lipski's retirement as CEO of the Pratt Foundation after 21 years of transformative leadership. Media highlighted his strategic approach to philanthropy and the foundation's impact on Australian and Israeli communities.
PhilanthropyMedia coverage of the opening of Israel's Park of the Australian Soldier in Beersheba, commemorating the centenary of the 1917 Australian Light Horse battle. The project, championed by Sam Lipski, was praised for strengthening Australia-Israel relations.
International RelationsMedia reports on Sam Lipski's tenure as President of the State Library of Victoria, highlighting his commitment to making the institution accessible and relevant to all Victorians, advancing "education in the broadest sense."
Cultural LeadershipRecognition of Sam Lipski's founding of The Australia-Israel Review, which became instrumental in establishing the Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council (AIJAC) and shaping discourse on Australia-Israel relations.
Media & DiplomacyMedia coverage of Sam Lipski's role as founding director of Australian Jewish Funders, advancing strategic philanthropy practices and supporting community organizations across Australia.
Community LeadershipSam Lipski was recognized with the Member of the Order of Australia for services to the media as a veteran journalist, commentator, and editor-in-chief of The Australian Jewish News.
National HonorSam Lipski's contributions to discussions on journalism ethics, editorial independence, and the role of community media have been featured in numerous publications and media forums throughout his distinguished career.
Journalism