At our May Event, AIIA WA  hosted a panel discussion to mark the 20th anniversary of the independence of Timor-Leste.  Less than 600km from Australia’s North, Timor-Leste has featured prominently in Australia’s foreign policy for many decades: from its annexation by Indonesia in 1975, its struggle for independence, and its development since.

Two of AIIA WA’s past presidents, Sue Boyd and John Goodlad, and our current president, Brendan Augustin, have all had significant involvement in Australia’s relationship with Timor-Leste from the mid 70’s through to the present.Sue, John, and Brendan discussed their personal experiences in this relationship and their views on the key issues pertaining to it.