Michael is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the 2023 Foundation, a charity dedicated to combating antisemitism. The events of October 7, and the resulting wave of antisemitism, deeply impacted Michael. He will not be a bystander and is determined to do something about it.
He served more than thirty years as an active-duty Australian Army Officer in the Royal Australian Armoured Corps, with operational deployments to East Timor, Bougainville, Iraq, and two tours of Afghanistan.
From 2019 to 2021, Michael was seconded to the United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation and based in Jerusalem. His mission area covered Israel, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Egypt—regions he travelled extensively, gaining deep insight into the complexities of the Middle East. For two years, he acted as Head of Military in the absence of the Major General. In recognition of his service, he was awarded the Conspicuous Service Cross in the 2023 Australia Day Honours List.
A graduate of the Royal Military College, Duntroon, Michael holds degrees from leading Australian universities. As a recipient of the Wandering Warriors Scholarship, he completed his Master of Business Administration in 2025, studying at the Australian Graduate School of Management and New York University’s Stern School of Business.
Michael is a sought-after keynote speaker, author, and leadership advisor. He draws on a lifetime of service and international experience to engage audiences on leadership, resilience, and the defence of Western democratic values.
Michael has a deep respect for the Jewish people and a strong affinity for Israel’s story. He has been published in leading newspapers in Israel and Australia, writing on Judeo-Christian values and threats to Western civilisation. In October 2024, he was made an honorary Life Member of Emanuel Synagogue in Sydney, recognizing his advocacy for the Jewish community. Neither Michael nor his wife is Jewish.
Welcome to this space—a reflection of my journey, my purpose, and my unwavering belief in the potential for meaningful change. As you explore, I hope you find more than just stories or achievements; I hope you discover inspiration to lead with conviction, courage, and compassion in your own endeavors.
For over three decades, I’ve had the honor of serving my country in the Australian Army, a journey that has taken me to some of the most challenging corners of the world. From East Timor to Iraq, from Afghanistan to the Middle East, these experiences have shaped my understanding of leadership, resilience, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. They have taught me that true leadership is not about titles or accolades—it is about standing firm in the face of adversity and finding purpose even in the most trying circumstances.
But leadership does not end when the uniform comes off. In founding The 2023 Foundation Ltd, I sought to confront one of the most pressing challenges of our time: antisemitism. This foundation is more than a response to hatred; it is a call to action to build a world rooted in education, opportunity, and understanding. It is a reminder that silence in the face of injustice is not an option, and that each of us holds the power to drive progress through empathy and action.
This platform is not just about my journey—it is about ours. It is about the shared responsibility we all bear to stand against division and to create spaces where unity and understanding can thrive. Through the lessons I’ve learned, the initiatives I champion, and the stories I share, I aim to inspire a movement that transcends borders and boundaries, one rooted in the belief that together, we are stronger.
I invite you to join this mission. Whether you are here to learn, to collaborate, or to support, your presence is a testament to your commitment to a brighter future. Together, we can amplify voices that deserve to be heard, build bridges where walls once stood, and inspire generations to lead with integrity and purpose.
Thank you for being here, for believing in the power of leadership, and for standing with me in the pursuit of justice and unity. The journey ahead is one we must walk together, and I am honored to share it with you.
With gratitude and determination,