Although Jews represent only a tiny proportion of the national population, they have made outstanding contributions and influenced Australian society immeasurably. This book explores how the Australian Jewish community differs from others around the world. It traces the community's history from its convict origins in 1788 through Australia's contemporary vibrant Jewish culture, and highlights its social and cultural impact. As well as looking at the emergence of a specific faith tradition, the book also explores how Jews, as the country's first ethnic group, have been assimilated into multicultural Australia.