Caritas Australia has welcomed a delegation from Timor-Leste, reaffirming a longstanding partnership grounded in solidarity, local leadership and shared commitment to the most vulnerable.
The visit of Timor-Leste’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Bendito dos Santos Freitas and Ambassador to Australia Inês Maria de Almeida underscored Caritas Australia’s deep roots in the country, where for decades it has worked alongside Church, community and government partners to support people through conflict, recovery and ongoing development challenges.
Caritas has operated in Timor-Leste at a diocesan level since 1999, following the independence vote, and unified as a national organisation in March 2025. It is now positioned to provide long-term development support as well as emergency response, walking alongside the church.
This enduring presence reflects a commitment on the part of Caritas to human dignity, subsidiarity and solidarity, ensuring communities are supported to lead their own development and respond to times of need with hope.
Mr Freitas acknowledged the significant role Caritas has played throughout Timor-Leste’s history, particularly during periods of crisis.
“Caritas has a better approach to the community; this grassroots connection is very important to bring direct impact,” he said.
“During the most difficult times, Caritas was there early, supporting people when assistance was limited. Today, its role remains crucial in serving the poor, the marginalised and those most in need.”
Discussions focused on strengthening collaboration in disaster preparedness and emergency response, as communities across Timor-Leste increasingly face climate-related shocks and other crises with limited resources, equipment and training.
Both the minister and ambassador expressed strong interest in expanding joint efforts to ensure more coordinated, community-led responses, leveraging Caritas’s extensive network of dioceses and local parishes to reach those most at risk.
Caritas Australia’s programs director Dan Skehan said the meeting highlighted shared priorities in building resilience and supporting locally led solutions.
“In times of growing uncertainty, solidarity matters more than ever. Together with our partners in Timor-Leste, we are committed to supporting communities to ensure they have the tools and resources to face future challenges,” Mr Skehan said.
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Caritas Australia welcomes delegation from Timor Leste (Caritas Australia)
