More Than an Ambulance: Why MDA is the Lifeline you’ll be Proud to Support

July 9, 2025
Magen David Adom medics in Israel: 36,000 strong, from all backgrounds, saving lives every day— with the help of global supporters like you. | Photos: MDA
Magen David Adom medics in Israel: 36,000 strong, from all backgrounds, saving lives every day— with the help of global supporters like you. | Photos: MDA

From high-tech innovation to humanitarian heroism, Magen David Adom is saving lives every day—and now, Australians can step up and help carry the stretcher.

When you hear the name Magen David Adom (MDA), you might picture sirens and ambulances. But that’s only the beginning of the story.

As Israel’s national emergency medical service and blood bank, MDA responds to an emergency every 24 seconds. But what makes this organisation truly exceptional is not just its speed—it’s the scope, soul, and sophistication behind every life saved.

Let’s start with the tech. MDA is a global leader in emergency medical innovation. From AI-powered dispatch systems that predict ambulance positioning, to underground blood vaults designed to withstand missile attacks, to drones that deliver defibrillators to remote areas—MDA is redefining what’s possible in crisis response. These advancements aren’t just saving lives in Israel; they’re shaping emergency medicine around the world.

And then there’s the heart of the organisation: its people. MDA is a living example of coexistence and unity. With over 33,000 volunteers and 3,000 staff, it brings together Jews, Muslims, Christians, Druze, and others—all working side by side. It’s more than a workforce; it’s a family united by compassion and purpose.

As a non-government organisation, MDA relies almost entirely on philanthropic support—from communities in Israel and generous donors around the world, including here in Australia. It’s thanks to this support that MDA remains Israel’s second line of defence, responding during conflict, terror attacks, and mass casualty events.

Their training programmes start early—Israeli students as young as Year 9 can begin volunteering. By the time they reach adulthood, many are already certified EMTs. This youth empowerment fosters a deep sense of responsibility, service, and national pride.

MDA’s reach doesn’t stop at Israel’s borders. From the earthquake in Turkey to disasters in Haiti, Ukraine and South America, MDA teams are deployed around the world, bringing life-saving aid wherever it’s needed most.

This is not just an ambulance service. It’s a humanitarian movement. A symbol of Jewish resilience. A source of pride for anyone who values saving lives—regardless of nationality, faith, or politics.

And now, we’re putting Australia’s red Star of David on the map.

We’ve launched Team MDA for the 2025 City2Surf, and we’re calling on our community to support the cause—run with us, fundraise alongside us, sponsor as a business, or simply make a tax-deductible donation to support the cause.

In a world where tragedy strikes fast, MDA is ready first. And with your help, it always will be.

Join us here: https://city2surf25.grassrootz.com/australian-friends-of-mda/team-mda

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  • Tamara Porat is the General Manager of Australian Friends of Magen David Adom in Sydney, a role she has held since January 2024. With a Master’s degree in Accounting from the University of New South Wales, she applies her financial expertise and leadership skills to support the organization’s mission. Based in New South Wales, Tamara oversees day-to-day operations, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement to strengthen community partnerships and advance lifesaving initiatives.

    View all posts General Manager | Australian Friends of Magen David Adom

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