Acclaimed Australian author Craig Silvey, best known for the novel Jasper Jones, has been charged with serious child exploitation offences, leading to his works being removed from school curricula in Western Australia.
Allegations and Arrest Details
The 43-year-old author was arrested at his Fremantle home on Monday following a police raid. The residence, located approximately 22 kilometres south of Perth's CBD, is shared with his partner, writer and puppeteer Clare Testoni, and their children.
Court documents allege Silvey was 'actively engaging with other child exploitation offenders online' using the alias 'Jimmy Jimmy Jimmy'. In alleged messages on an adult website, Silvey is said to have identified himself as a 'Fremantle guy', complimenting another user by writing, 'You sound absolutely amazing. Looking gorg too. Very similar interests.'
Prosecutors, citing a 7News report, believe some of the illegal material was obtained within his home office. Silvey now faces one count of distributing child exploitation material and one count of possessing it.
Court Appearance and Bail Conditions
Silvey appeared in Fremantle Court on Tuesday, where he was not required to enter a plea. Magistrate Thomas Hall granted bail under strict conditions, including a $100,000 surety and a $100,000 personal undertaking. The magistrate noted that imprisonment was a likely outcome should he be convicted.
His bail terms severely restrict his movements and activities. He is prohibited from leaving Western Australia and cannot engage in any work involving children. His internet access has been limited strictly to purposes such as seeking legal advice, online banking, and medical needs.
Immediate Fallout and Educational Response
The scandal has prompted swift action from the WA education department. Education Minister Sabine Winter confirmed that Silvey's bestselling titles, including Runt, Jasper Jones, and Honeybee, will be removed from the state's curriculum.
In a statement, Minister Winter said, 'I have asked the Department of Education to ensure that schools cease using texts by Craig Silvey for the 2026 school year while the allegations are under investigation.' This move effectively distances the state's schools from the author as the legal process unfolds.
The case continues, with further developments expected.
