Up to 4000 asylum seekers could be housed in East Timor under a plan being considered by Australia.
The federal government has given East Timor a 23-page document suggesting how asylum seekers bound for Australia could be detained in a regional processing centre close to air and sea ports, ABC Television reports.
"Alternative options could be used to provide a surge capacity for up to 4000 asylum seekers," the document said.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
Options to house 1000 and 2000 asylum seekers are also outlined.
Under the first scenario, 600 places would be set aside in a men-only compound, with another 400 spots reserved for families and children.
The option to house 2000 asylum seekers would double the number of places for men and families.
Immigration Minister Chris Bowen said the document given to East Timor was intended as the basis for continuing discussion.
"Given the two governments are still in talks, it would not be appropriate to comment further," he said in a statement to ABC Television.
Prime Minister Julia Gillard in July flagged the government's push for a regional processing centre.
