History
The Establishment of Temple David.
In 1951, Dr. Ronald Taft, an active member of Temple Beth Israel in Melbourne, joined the Psychology Department of the University of Western Australia. Dr. Taft recognised that the support for Progressive Judaism in Western Australia would come from the new rather than the older members of the Community, and especially from the Central European Jews who had fled the Nazi Regime between 1933 and 1938, and had settled in W.A.
In April, 1952, a meeting was convened in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Kurt Gottschalk, to investigate the possibility of conducting periodical Progressive Services. On 5th May 1952, a further meeting was held, attended by 40 people, and it was decided to establish the “Liberal Jewish Group” and to hold services in a suitable hall.
 
On 18th July 1952, the Inaugural Sabbath Eve Service was held in the Women’s Service Guild in Sherwood Court, attended by 100 worshippers. Rabbi Dr. Herman Sanger of Temple Beth Israel, Melbourne, visited Temple David and conducted a Service in August, 1952 that attracted 300 worshippers. From February, 1953, Manchester Unity Hall was chosen for a new venue to accommodate the ever increasing number of worshippers. On the 20th June 1954, the Congregation purchased 34 Clifton Crescent, and converted this property into a synagogue, school and social centre. On the 18th June 1956, Rabbi George W. Ruben became the first Rabbi of the Liberal Jewish Group. The Group then changed its name to what it remains known today as - Temple David.
 
The growth of the Congregation was rapid, and its premises proved far too small for High Holyday Services. Consequently these services had to be held in the North Perth Town Hall. This prompted the Congregation to build a sanctuary and a school on the property. The Foundation Stone was laid on the 22nd July 1962, and the building was dedicated on the 27th October 1963. By 1972, the Congregation was thriving and had close to 600 members, with a Hebrew school of 140 children. It once again had to expand the premises by building a social hall, permanent caretaker’s quarters, a new boardroom and office facilities.
 
The Temple has established its own area in the Karrakatta Cemetery, and the future of Temple David seems to be assured, as the recent excesses in world history, caused by fundamentalism in all religions, will no doubt lead future generations towards a more Liberal and Progressive form of religion.