Mr JULL (3:14 PM) —I ask the Minister for Defence what contribution Australia is making in the latest phase of the UN operations in East Timor.

Mr MOORE (Minister for Defence) —I thank the member for Fadden for his question and also for his continuing interest in defence matters as a member of the committee in particular. On Friday I had the pleasure of seeing off our latest contingent of troops to East Timor, the 6RAR from the Enoggera barracks in Brisbane. They will form part of the 1,900 Australian troops remaining in East Timor as part of our contribution to UNTAET. Tomorrow, elements of 6RAR will relieve 5/7RAR. They will continue to provide a vital security presence along the east and west Timor border. Whilst the government welcomes the progress that has been made to date by the Indonesian government to curb militia activities, militia continue to disrupt East Timorese reconstruction. There are therefore risks involved in any deployment. However, the ADF troops are very well trained and skilled to deal with any situations that may arise. Australia can be rightly proud of the troops' efforts in East Timor. We can also be proud of the way in which the families of Australian servicemen and servicewomen have supported them through this difficult time. They have all played and are playing an important part in bringing peace to East Timor. I am sure all members of the House will join me in thanking the men and women of 5/7RAR for the excellent job they have done, at the same time wishing those going, 6RAR, the very best of good fortune.