Award-Winning Australian Children’s Author Craig Silvey Jailed in Child Exploitation Material Case
Messages heard in court
Silvey also described himself as a “Fremantle guy” in a chat and asked to continue speaking through Signal or Session. Judge Hayley Cormann called the offending very serious and disturbing.
Images found by police
Police found numerous category one photos and videos on Silvey’s laptop and mobile phone during a raid at his Fremantle home. The material involved children and adults.
A recognised author
Silvey is best known for his 2009 coming-of-age novel Jasper Jones, which was adapted into a feature film and stage productions. The book is considered a modern Australian classic.
His other books include Rhubarb and Honeybee, which won the Australian Indie Book Award in 2021. His children’s novel Runt was also adapted into a film.
Support services
Children, young adults, parents and teachers in Australia can contact Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800. Adult survivors can seek help from Blue Knot Foundation on 1300 657 380.
Key points
- Police found category one images and videos on Silvey’s devices during a raid at his Fremantle home.
- The court heard messages expressing sexual desire for young boys.
- Judge Hayley Cormann described the offending as very serious and disturbing.
- Two further charges were dropped in May.