Key facts
- Australia commits US$44 million to East Timor for security.
- Investment to bolster cyber security, maritime security, and disaster response.
- New vessels to be provided for maritime policing and search and rescue.
- Support for digital forensics capabilities to combat cybercrime.
Australia has committed A$62 million (US$44 million) to East Timor to enhance its cyber security, maritime security, and disaster response capabilities. The agreement, signed on Thursday, aims to strengthen cooperation and curb China's influence in the region. Defence Minister Richard Marles stated that the deal significantly increases defense exercises between the two nations. The investment will also support the Timor-Leste Police Development Program and provide new vessels for maritime policing. These initiatives build on the Parseria Foun ba Era Foun (New Partnership for a New Era) signed in January 2026.