ACT Education Directorate Takes Precautionary Action on Author's Works
The ACT education directorate has implemented a precautionary ban on books by acclaimed Australian author Craig Silvey across all public schools in the territory. This decisive move comes in response to serious criminal charges currently facing the writer, whose works have been widely studied in educational settings.
Immediate Removal from Educational Materials
An education directorate spokesperson confirmed that Silvey's texts will be completely removed from curriculum documents, lesson plans, and school libraries throughout 2026. This action aligns with similar decisions made by Western Australian and Victorian education authorities, while Queensland has issued recommendations for state schools to follow suit.
The prominent author, best known for novels including Runt, Jasper Jones, and Honeybee, faces charges related to the possession and distribution of child exploitation material filed in January. These allegations have prompted swift responses from educational institutions across multiple Australian jurisdictions.
Protecting Student Wellbeing as Priority
The directorate's spokesperson emphasized that this precautionary approach prioritizes child safety and wellbeing above all other considerations. "The recommendation to restrict texts based on charges is a precautionary approach to protecting child wellbeing," the spokesperson explained.
"This decision considers that Mr Silvey's texts are prominent in lesson plans and school libraries and that many students are likely aware of the allegations against him."
Alignment with Child Safe Standards
This action directly supports the directorate's commitment to maintaining rigorous child safe standards throughout ACT public schools. The spokesperson specifically referenced standard one, which mandates that child safety and wellbeing should be "embedded in organisational leadership, governance, and culture."
The removal of Silvey's works took effect from Term 1, ensuring immediate implementation across the territory's educational institutions.
Broader Impact on Cultural Events
The controversy has extended beyond educational settings, affecting cultural programming as well. A stage adaptation of one of Silvey's literary works has been indefinitely postponed, reflecting the broader cultural reassessment occurring across Australia.
Silvey participated in Canberra's Writers Festival as recently as 2025, highlighting his previous standing within Australia's literary community. The author has not yet entered a plea regarding the charges and is scheduled to return to court later this month.
The education directorate's decision represents a significant development in how educational institutions respond to serious allegations against cultural figures whose works have been integrated into learning environments. This case establishes important precedents for balancing educational value with protective responsibilities toward students.
