Why Timor?
Timor-Leste is one of our nearest neighbours. It is on our doorstep; only 400km from Australia's coast (which is 200km closer than Lord Howe Island, a part of NSW).
There are deep historical ties that carry enormous emotion on both sides. The Timorese criados relationship with Australia's Sparrow Force servicemen still makes headlines seventy years on.
In addition to the complexity of being a new nation and a fragile state, Timor-Leste's physical resources are lacking, with the destruction of up to 80% of Timor-Leste's infrastructure having occurred during the complex independence process in 1999.
Ordinary Australians feel an affinity to Timor-Leste, which is evidenced by the proliferation of local fundraising events run by schools, Rotary groups, University groups, and Australia Timor-Leste Friendship Groups, as well as large donations by individuals.
Australian business interest in Timor-Leste is growing. With the guidance of Hon Steve Bracks AC and Honorary Consul-General for Timor-Leste Kevin Bailey, Victoria is leading the country in developing business ties.
Timor-Leste's population size and rapid growth (second only to Afghanistan, with an average of 6.38 children per family) will ensure demand is sufficient to support a tertiary teaching hospital well into the future.
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