TIMOR-LESTE ALLEGATIONS

The Australian-led Joint Task Force (JTF) is completely neutral and highly professional in the way it operates in Timor-Leste. Extreme care is taken to avoid any perceived bias while maintaining security in this complex environment.

The Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston rejected the speculation in the media stating "I refute entirely any allegation that our people were involved in any way in the deaths of two Timorese nationals on Friday".

Rumours and speculation about the JTF bias are wrong and mistakenly discredit the reputation of the Australian forces and the neutral, professional support which they provide.

The JTF deployed at the request of the Timorese Government back in May and remains there at their request.

The JTF is working tirelessly to support the East Timorese people in returning peace and stability to Timor-Leste.

Media contact:

Defence Media Liaison          (02) 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664

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