MEDIA RELEASE

Half Tonne Clothing Delivery as Part of $300,000 East Timor Package

Austcare is distributing more than half a tonne of children's clothing in the eastern districts of Timor-Leste as part of its on-going response to last month's unrest in the fledgling democracy.

The Australian-based international aid organisation has developed a $340,000 program to assist those affected by the post-election turmoil that forced 8000 people from their homes and resulted in the burning, looting or destruction of more than 400 houses.

As part of its response, Austcare has begun delivering clothing for adults and children throughout the Watulari section of Viqueque district, along with nearly 1800 packs of books, pens and school bags to replace scarce educational supplies lost when local families were forced to flee.

As part of its longer-term strategy Austcare is finalising the creation of a seven person East Timor Protection Team. The team will largely use motorbikes to reach displaced people in some of the worst affected areas of the country. The officers will help them access available services, or evaluate what services are required in an area and work to have them established.

The AusAID funded program is expected to run until at least June next year.

Austcare's Timor-Leste Crisis Appeal, that began last month, is still underway and anybody wishing to donate can do so at: http://www.austcare.org.au/donatenow/appeals/timor-leste-crisis-appeal.aspx

The distribution of Austcare's clothing and school supplies began today (WED) and is expected to take between two and three days. (ENDS)

**Apologies for the short notice on the aid convoy's departure and hope to be able to provide photographs to media upon request in coming days**

Austcare's Chief Executive Officer, Mike Smith or Chief Operations Officer, Archie Law will be available for comments in Australia.

Austcare's Timor-Leste Country Director, Dr Jay Maheswaran is also available for comment.

For further information contact: Daniel Barty Campaign & Media Officer (02) 9565 9104 or 0430 464 954 dbarty@austcare.org.au