Great Synagogue Great Synagogue | Sydney Jewish prayer times & contact
Location: Sydney, NSW, Australia
About Great Synagogue offers prayer services and community connection in Sydney, Australia.
Nusach: Ashkenaz.
Address: 166 Castlereagh St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia.
Rabbi / contact: benjamin elton.
Contact: phone 292672477, email [email protected] , website http://www.greatsynagogue.org.au.
Minyan schedule
Monday
Shacharis: 6:50 AMMincha: 1:15 PMTuesday
Shacharis: 6:50 AMMincha: 1:15 PMWednesday
Shacharis: 6:50 AMMincha: 1:15 PMThursday
Shacharis: 6:50 AMMincha: 1:15 PMFriday
Shacharis: 6:50 AMMincha: 6:30 PMSaturday
The Great Synagogue is Australias oldest congregation. Situated in the central business district the synagogue offers a warm atmosphere for its members and any tourists staying in nearby hotels.
Mincha notes: followed by light lunch and shiur
Activities & entertainment 2882Location Address: 166 Castlereagh St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Home · Contact · List your business About this listing The Great Synagogue is the oldest congregation in Australia. Located on Castlereagh Street, it serves as a central hub for Jewish life in Sydney. This historic shul offers a place for prayer, study, and community connection in the heart of the city.
The congregation follows the Ashkenaz tradition. It provides regular daily services for both residents and visitors. Whether you are in Sydney for business or a holiday, the synagogue offers a welcoming environment for tefillah.
Led by Rabbi Benjamin Elton, the community maintains a rich heritage while meeting the needs of modern Jewish travelers. The building itself is a significant architectural landmark within the New South Wales capital.
About the area You will find the synagogue at 166 Castlereagh Street in Sydney, NSW. This location sits within the busy Central Business District (CBD). It is very convenient for those working in the city or staying at major downtown hotels.
Proximity to Jewish Life
While the CBD is primarily a commercial hub, it is well-connected to Sydney's established Jewish neighborhoods. Areas like Bondi and Rose Bay are reachable via a short drive or public transport. These suburbs house many kosher restaurants, bakeries, and grocery stores.
Being in the city center means the synagogue is near major transit lines. This makes it an ideal stop for travelers who need a reliable minyan during their stay in Australia.
Nearby Jewish landmarks The synagogue stands in a prominent part of Sydney. Several major landmarks are within a short walk of the entrance.
Hyde Park: A large urban park directly across from the synagogue.
The Sydney CBD: The main business district with many corporate offices.
St James Station: A nearby transit hub for easy travel across the city.
Town Hall: A central meeting point located just a few blocks away.
Visitors can easily walk to the Queen Victoria Building for shopping or head toward Circular Quay to see the Sydney Opera House. The central location makes it easy to attend morning services before starting a day of sightseeing.
What to expect The synagogue maintains a consistent schedule for daily and Shabbat services. Weekday morning prayers start early to accommodate those heading to work. Afternoon services are also held regularly during the week.
Service Details
Monday through Friday Shacharis at 6:50 AM.
Midday Mincha services at 1:15 PM on weekdays.
Friday evening Mincha at 6:30 PM to welcome Shabbat.
Shabbat morning Shacharis starting at 8:45 AM.
One unique feature of the weekday routine is the Mincha service. It is often followed by a light lunch and a shiur. This provides a great opportunity for Torah study during the work day.
The atmosphere inside is respectful and traditional. The community prides itself on being a "warm" place for guests. If you plan to visit, you can contact the office via email or phone to confirm specific holiday times.
Frequently asked questions What nusach is followed at Great Synagogue? The synagogue follows the Ashkenaz nusach for all prayer services.
What are the typical weekday prayer times? Weekday Shacharis typically begins at 6:50 AM, while Mincha is held at 1:15 PM. Times may vary on communal holidays.
Are tourists welcome to join the minyan? Yes, visitors and tourists staying in the central business district are welcome to attend services.
Who is the rabbi at Great Synagogue? Rabbi Benjamin Elton serves as the spiritual leader for this congregation.
