25 Years of Australian service in Timor-Leste

As we mark 25 years of Australian service in Timor-Leste, we remember Australia’s long and proud history of international peacekeeping.

When the Timorese people took the courageous step of voting for independence in 1999 and asked the international community for help to secure their nation, Australia answered.

The referendum was overseen by the United Nations Assistance Mission to East Timor (UNAMET), containing Australian military and civilian police personnel.

Around 5,500 Australian service personnel were sent to Timor-Leste as part of the International Force East Timor (INTERFET) – it was the largest deployment of Australian troops since the Vietnam War. 

Joined by almost 5,000 troops from 22 other countries, INTERFET, its predecessor UNAMET, and subsequent peacekeeping missions helped restore stability after the unrest following the vote.

We acknowledge all those who have participated in the peacekeeping missions to Timor-Leste including Australian Defence Force Personnel, Australian Federal Police, Australian Electoral Commission, Australian Customs officers and other Australian Government agencies. 

We pay tribute to the six Australians who tragically lost their lives while deployed, or as a result of their service. 

We also recognise the remarkable resilience of the Timorese people and the enduring friendship between our two nations.

We are grateful to the many Australians who served in Timor-Leste who have regularly returned over these 25 years, strengthening the bonds and productivity of local communities. 

As commemorative services are held all over Australia, we thank all who served and continue to serve to this day.