Disgraced Australian author Craig Silvey has pleaded guilty to two child exploitation offences in a Perth court. The 43-year-old writer, best known for his acclaimed novel Jasper Jones, appeared in the Perth Magistrates Court on Tuesday, 5 May 2026, where he entered guilty pleas to charges of possessing and accessing child exploitation material.
Details of the Charges
Silvey was charged following an investigation by the Australian Federal Police's Joint Anti-Child Exploitation Team. The charges relate to his possession of child exploitation material and accessing such material via the internet. The court heard that the offences occurred between 2022 and 2023.
Magistrate Michelle Harries adjourned the matter for sentencing submissions, with Silvey's lawyer indicating they would seek a psychiatric report. Silvey was granted bail pending sentencing, with strict conditions including that he not contact minors and surrender his passport.
Literary Career and Fallout
Silvey rose to literary prominence with Jasper Jones, which won several awards and was adapted into a film and stage play. His other works include Rhubarb and Honeybee. Since the charges became public, publishers have distanced themselves from Silvey, and his books have been removed from many school reading lists.
The case has shocked the Australian literary community, with many expressing dismay at the fall of a once-celebrated author. Silvey is expected to face sentencing later this year, with the possibility of a prison term.
