The protestors are incensed by Canberra’s actions in issuing exploration licenses in disputed parts of a gas field which lies between the two countries’ territories.

Officials from the two governments are due to meet in Dili today.

The protest comes on the back of East Timorese Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri’s accusations that Australia breached international law by issuing exploration licenses in the Greater Sunrise field.

Australia has denied the allegations and has claimed part of the field is under its exclusive control under the Timor Sea Treaty, which gives Australia around 82% of the revenues from the reserves until Dili and Canberra decide where their maritime boundaries lay.

In a statement, the protestors have argued, “Australia [has] benefited from gas fields which are closer to East Timor than to Australia. These are our wealth and you don’t have the right to sell them.”

The protestors have also urged officials of both countries to meet more often for open dialogue to find a solution to the dispute. “It is not too late for Australia to rebuild friendly relations with East Timor. But time is running out,” exclaimed the protestors.