Jewish family donates $27 million to Sydney University

SYDNEY — A Jewish family foundation has donated more than $27 million (35 million Australian dollars) to The University of Sydney.

The gift from the Susan and Isaac Wakil Foundation is the largest donation to the University of Sydney since it was founded in 1850.

In 2015, the Wakils gave an unprecedented $10.8 million to the Sydney Nursing School in order to establish 12 annual nursing scholarships.

The gift will enable construction of the main building of the University of Sydney’s proposed Health Precinct. For the first time, multiple health disciplines will come together in a purpose-built facility to translate research into education and clinical services.

“We were inspired by the radical and innovative approach the University of Sydney is taking to address immediate and future healthcare challenges,’’ Isaac Wakil said. “Susan and I are pleased to be able to make this project a reality.”

Isaac Wakil immigrated to Australia from Baghdad, making his fortune in the clothing industry and subsequently in property acquisition.

Last year the Wakils made a substantial donation to the Sydney Jewish Museum.