No severe malnutrition is apparent among the children, but some have no clothes. The total number of East Timorese displaced since 5 September is estimated at 500, 000. It is anticipated that 60 per cent of farmers will return to East Timor once the situation there has improved. About 25 per cent of the second group are expected to return. A staging centre for humanitarian aid to the people of East Timor, located in Darwin, Australia, is now in operation with four staff members in place and additional staff on the way.
Supplies are also in place, awaiting safe transport to East Timor.
A team is already in place and meeting with other key organizations to co-ordinate their joint efforts.