What was the SIEV X tragedy?
A memorial in Canberra stands in the shadows of federal parliament for 353 mainly Afghans and Iraqis who died on a fishing boat known only as SIEV X. They drowned 20 years ago after leaving Indonesia in the first major – and worst – asylum seeker boat tragedy on record of those trying to reach Australia.
What happened to SIEV X?
Sinking. On 18 October 2001, a small, unnamed 19.5 metre by 4 metre Indonesian fishing boat departed Bandar Lampung, Indonesia, with 421 passengers on board. On the 19th, the boat sank during a storm in Indonesian waters about 70 km south of Java.
How many died on SIEV X?
353 people drowned – 146 children, 142 women and 65 men. S I E V, pronounced SEIV, stands for Suspected Illegal Entry Vessel. It is the acronym used for a boat or vessel that has entered Australian waters without prior permission.
When did SIEV X sink?
October 19, 2001
She was one of 45 survivors of a capsized fishing boat that became known as SIEV X. Three hundred and fifty-three asylum seekers drowned when the boat sank en route to Christmas Island on October 19, 2001.
When did the SIEV X incident take place?
The SIEV-X incident occurred during the 2001 Australian Federal election campaign. The Tampa affair had focused national media’s attention on the issue of asylum seekers.
Why was the SIEV X a tragedy for Australia?
The SIEV X was a tragedy, for the victims and their families. It was, and remains, a tragedy for this nation, too, reminding us that the White Australia policy lives on. On the 13th anniversary of SIEV X tomorrow, many would like to attend a service at Canberra’s SIEV X memorial. A memorial that Howard fought to prevent being erected.
How many people died on the SIEV X boat?
The dilapidated Indonesian fishing boat was en route from Sumatra to Christmas Island carrying over 400 asylum seekers. It sank just south of the Indonesian island of Java, killing 353 people, mainly women and children.
Who was Prime Minister at the time of SIEV X?
The SIEV-X incident occurred during the 2001 Australian Federal election campaign. The Tampa affair had focused national media’s attention on the issue of asylum seekers. Prime Minister John Howard claimed his policy would prevent people smuggling and stop the boats of asylum seekers from arriving in Australia.