Robert Domm, former union official, public servant and social activist died in November 2025. Robert was an industrial officer with the ACOA National Office dealing with Award and general conditions matters before the amalgamation and the CPSU after it. He also worked for the MUA and the ALAEA. He was General Manager of the City of Sydney Council and held a number of other executive positions in state and local government.

Robert came to public attention where he interviewed resistance fighter Xanana Gusmao in the Timor jungle in 1990 as a “freelance journalist” for ABC radio. It was the first time that Gusmao’s voice and image had been heard since the invasion of Timor in 1975. The interview showed the world that the people of East Timor still wanted independence and helped lead to world leaders supporting the independence vote many years after.

The Prime Minister of Timor-Leste stated that:
“The people of Timor-Leste feel a great loss. We will never forget Robert Domm’s contribution during the struggle for independence. His report showed the world about our suffering during the occupation”.

Robert was a person with strong values and views and was a great support for his colleagues. We will miss him.


Robert (left) with Xanana Gusmao (right), Timor 1990.

ACOA amalgamation poster (Robert’s hand is at the top).

More details about Robert's impact on Timor-Leste independence can be found at https://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-11-12/25-years-since-interview-that-changed-east-timor/6931254

Credit: Stuart Bell, Ian Latham