Sydney Children’s Author Charged for Alleged Online Grooming of Minor

Sydney-based children’s author, Oliver Phommavanh, has been charged with alleged online grooming of a minor, causing shockwaves in the literary community and beyond.

The 41-year-old writer was apprehended at a residence in Old Guildford, Western Sydney, following investigations by the NSW Police into sexual abuse and exploitation of children after an interstate report surfaced earlier this month.

Accused of sending inappropriate content to a person he believed was a 13-year-old girl, Phommavanh faces charges of using a carriage service to groom a minor for sexual purposes and to procure a child for sexual activity, stemming from his alleged misappropriation of his standing as a children’s author.

Authorities seized electronic devices during the arrest, shedding light on a disturbing potential misuse of trust and influence by someone known for works like Thai-Riffic! and his commitment to literacy programs such as Kids Own Australia’s Literature Awards and Room to Read.

The ongoing investigation under Strike Force Trawler has gained attention due to Phommavanh’s prominence, and the case is set to be heard at Parramatta Local Court on July 9, with consequences that could resonate throughout the literary and educational sectors.