A Certain Maritime Incident: The Sinking of SIEV X

by Tony Kevin

In October 2001, more than 400 asylum-seekers departed from Indonesia in a grossly overcrowded, unseaworthy boat bound for Australia. Somewhere between the two countries, however, the boat sank, and 353 people drowned. The Australian government claimed it had no prior knowledge of the unfolding tragedy, yet ministers and senior officials from the beginning tried to mislead the Australian Senate and the community. This book connects the dots to reveal a disquieting record of government misconduct and attempts to answer plaguing questions, such as What did the government and its agencies know about the boat and its fate, and when? Did they have any responsibility for the tragedy? and Did they have a duty of care to save the survivors?

Genres: Nonfiction

306 pages, Paperback

Published August 1, 2004

Reviews

[Bridget]

For a book originally published in 2004, it has some strikingly relevant observations and lessons for 2022 whilst also being a depressing reminder of how differently the media treats female politicians in Australia to their male counterparts. Having been too young and apathetic in 2004 to notice the vile public (mis)treatment of the likes of Natasha Stot-Despoja and Cheryl Kernot, I enjoyed the history lesson and newfound appreciation for our political foremothers. This is a must read for the new generation of (rightfully) fed up women spurred on by Brittany Higgins and Grace Tame.

[Travis Bird]

A balanced and pragmatic assessment of the media's role in the rise and fall of some prominent Australian female politicians.

[Lizzie]

'A Certain Maritime Incident' by Tony Kevin examines the 2001 sinking of SIEV-X, where 353 asylum seekers died while travelling to Australia from Indonesia. Kevin argues the government of John Howard may have avoided an inquiry because its border-protection policies were linked to the tragedy. To date, there has never been a full, independent judicial inquiry or Royal Commission into the 2001 sinking of SIEV X, despite 353 people drowning, and persistent calls from advocates and politicians. The book stands as an important history lesson for Australians, encouraging reflection on accountability, compassion, and the human consequences of national border policies.

[Greg Robinson]

important contribution to Australian polity; no holds barred; tells us of the wasted opportunities in Australia through media bias and denigration; Chapter 11 - How to succeed in politics without a penis

[Paul]

This is a well written in depth book on the press and female politicians and how they reacted to each other Baird has the ability to extract opinions from both the press and the politician
that makes the book interesting and informative