Who Is Craig Silvey? Australian Author Arrested Over Paedophilia Allegations—What We Know About the Charges So Far

The arrest of Australian author Craig Silvey has sent shockwaves through the country's literary and education sectors, placing one of Australia's most widely read youth novelists at the centre of serious criminal allegations.

Silvey, best known for novels such as Jasper Jones, Honeybee and Runt, was arrested by Western Australia Police on 12 January 2026, following an investigation into alleged online child exploitation activity.

Police and prosecutors say the charges relate to possession and distribution of child exploitation material, though Silvey has not entered a plea and is presumed innocent.

Who Is Craig Silvey?

Born in 1982 in Western Australia, Silvey rose to national prominence as one of Australia's most successful contemporary authors. He published his debut novel, Rhubarb, at just 19, before achieving mainstream success with Jasper Jones in 2009.

The novel became a bestseller, was widely taught in schools, and was later adapted into a feature film and stage productions.

Silvey's later works continued to focus on young people and identity. Honeybee (2020), which follows a transgender teenager, won major literary awards and became a common school text. His children's novel Runt (2022) was also adapted for film.

Beyond writing, Silvey is also a musician and screenwriter and has long been recognised as a role model for young readers and writers.

Arrest and Allegations Explained

According to prosecutors, Silvey was taken into custody after police executed a search warrant at his home in Fremantle, Western Australia. In court, the prosecution alleged that between 7 January and 9 January 2026, Silvey engaged online with other alleged child exploitation offenders using the alias 'Jimmy Jimmy Jimmy.'

The court was told Silvey allegedly participated in conversations on an adult website where users exchanged pornographic material. Prosecutors claimed he expressed a sexual interest in children and shared illicit images during those interactions.

Police reportedly seized multiple electronic devices, including a phone and computer, which are now subject to forensic examination.

Investigators told the court that Silvey has not provided access to those devices, prompting an application for a court order to compel cooperation.

Fallout Across Schools and Publishing

The response from institutions has been swift nationwide. Education departments in Western Australia, Victoria and Queensland have moved to suspend or remove Silvey's books from school curricula for 2026. His publisher has reportedly paused promotional activity, and several major bookstores have pulled his titles from shelves or listed them as unavailable.

Arts organisations have also distanced themselves. According to reports, a stage adaptation of his book Runt has been halted, and Silvey has been removed from literary patron roles connected to youth programs.

Meanwhile, public reactions on social media have been marked by shock and distress, particularly given Silvey's reputation as a writer for young audiences.

Many commentators have highlighted the tension between his literary themes and the nature of the allegations, while others have urged patience and respect for due process, as it is an ongoing investigation.

Authorities have not released further details about the alleged material or online conversations cited in court. Meanwhile, the case remains before the courts, with investigators continuing their examination of seized devices.