Fremantle-based Australian author Craig Silvey, 43, arrested Monday at home raid after police allegedly caught him “actively engaging” with child exploitation offenders online. Authorities seized electronic devices immediately.
WA Police charged Silvey, best known for 2009 novel Jasper Jones, with distribution and possession of child exploitation material.
He appeared Tuesday in Fremantle Magistrates Court, where prosecutors alleged online conversations expressing sexual interest in children and material distribution over several January days.
Bail with strict conditions
Craig Silvey refused passwords for mobile, laptop, other devices; court order sought. Magistrate Thomas Hall called charges “very serious,” warning “imprisonment likely” though not yet convicted.
Granted bail on $100,000 surety, must report to station thrice weekly. Banned from child-related work including school visits, unsupervised child contact (including own), and internet access.
ABC reports Silvey failed surety condition, transported from court in prison van.
School books pulled from curriculum
WA Education Minister Sabine Winton ordered schools remove books written by Silvey from 2026 curriculum during investigation. Jasper Jones and Rhubarb among 100+ Year 11/12 literature texts; Jasper Jones suggested for ATAR/General English.
City of Subiaco ended Silvey’s Young Writers Award patronage announced 2023.
Celebrated career now tainted
Silvey’s 20+ year career includes Jasper Jones (nearly 1M global sales), award-winning 2022 novel Runt (2024 film). Works frequently explore racism, sexual identity, abuse with teen protagonists.
Father of three young daughters with partner grew up in Dwellingup, schooled in Perth, resides Fremantle.
Next court date: 10 February. Police prosecutor opposed bail citing non-cooperation, flight risk, investigation hindrance. Defence noted no passport.
Sources: ABC/The Age
Also read: Limassol child abuse sentence appeal rejected by court
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