Honouring Legacy. Supporting Justice. Building Community.
Timor-Leste President His Excellency Dr José Ramos-Horta spoke at a special event at Victoria University on 20 October 2025 to mark 50 years since the deaths of the Balibó Five and reflect on their legacy through the continuing work of the Balibó House Trust.
It has been half a century since the five Australian-based journalists were killed in Balibó on 16 October 1975. Their deaths remain a defining moment in Australia’s relationship with Timor-Leste, and their story continues to resonate across generations.
The Balibó House Trust was established in their memory and has worked for more than two decades with the people of Balibó to support health, education and local development.
In Proud Collaboration with Victoria University’s The Jean McLean Oration
The Jean McLean Oration recognises the tireless efforts of The Hon Dr Jean McLean AM, whose decades of solidarity with Timor-Leste have shaped enduring people-to-people connections.
The evening was both a commemoration of the past and a reaffirmation of the ongoing work of the Trust to honour the Balibó Five through practical support and partnership in Timor-Leste.
Please see below a recording of the event, with thanks to Victoria University: