The vision to build an East Timorese embassy in Australia is one step closer to reality today.
Minister for Revenue and Assistant Treasurer, Mal Brough, announced the Government's decision to allow tax deductions for gifts of $2 or more to the 'Rotary Leadership Victoria Australian Embassy for Timor-Leste Fund'.
The Fund was established by the Rotary Club of Melbourne and Leadership Victoria to construct an embassy for East Timor in Canberra on land provided by the Australian Government. On completion, the embassy will be donated to the Government of East Timor.
"The success of this project is based on a spirit of co-operation, generosity and hard-work. The Rotary Club of Melbourne has worked hard to get this idea off the ground, with the help and support of Leadership Victoria.
"The Government has been able to lend a hand by providing the land for the construction of the embassy, and declaring tax deductibility status for the Australian Embassy for Timor-Leste Fund," Mr Brough said.
"With the support of the Australian people, East Timor will have a formal presence in Canberra's diplomatic community, which will be a lasting symbol of friendship and co-operation between our two countries."
Subject to the legislation's passage through Parliament, gifts to the Rotary Leadership Victoria Australian Embassy for Timor-Leste Fund will be tax deductible for the period from 8 November 2004 to 7 November 2006.
Taxpayers should ensure they receive a receipt for their donation.
Media Contact: Carlie Hogan - 6277 7360