In a statement, Timor-Leste said it “appreciates the contribution of Mr Bernard Collaery and his client, a former spy known as Witness K, in the process that established the definitive maritime boundaries between Timor-Leste and Australia in the Timor Sea, culminating in the signing of the treaty between the two countries on March 6th, 2018.”

Dreyfus announced at a press conference in Sydney on Thursday the Commonwealth would discontinue its case against Collaery, a former ACT attorney-general, who was facing the prospect of jail.

“Having regard to our national security, our national interest and the proper administration of justice, today I have determined that this prosecution should end,” he said.

Collaery’s trial had been due to start on October 24 after years of delays.

In a statement released through his lawyers, Collaery said the decision would allow him to move on with his life, as he praised the depth of community support he had received from across the country and the close friends “who gave me inner strength”.