ChildFund has been working in Timor-Leste since 1990, working with local communities to build a new, stable and prosperous future for the country.
In 2002, Timor-Leste (formerly East Timor) became the first new country of the 21st century, following more than two decades of Indonesian rule. Home to around 1.2 million people, the Timorese population is young and vulnerable – with almost 70 per cent of its people aged under 25 years old. Widespread poverty manifests in high mortality rates and malnutrition among children.
Only around 14 percent of children in Timor-Leste take part in early education and intellectual stimulation, leaving many at risk of developmental delays.
It is estimated that only five out of 10 children in Timor-Leste are registered at birth, meaning many miss out on their rights – including access to basic health and education services.
Many villages in remote areas do not have high schools and children from poor families cannot afford to pay for transportation so their children cannot complete their studies.
ChildFund Australia recognises the significance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land; and recognise their continuing connection to the land, water and community. We pay our respect to them and their cultures; and to Elders past and present.
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