Kylie Moore-Gilbert now two years into prison sentence in Iran

Marise Payne has marked the second anniversary of Kylie Moore-Gilbert’s detention by saying the Australian government does not accept the charges.

Australian academic Kylie Moore Gilbert. Picture: Supplied

Foreign Minister Marise Payne has marked the second anniversary of Kylie Moore-Gilbert’s detention­ in Iran by saying the Australian government does not accept the charges upon which she was convicted.

The Melbourne University academic is two years into a 10-year sentence for “spying” after she was reported for asking ­“suspicious” questions during an Iranian study tour in 2018.

Senator Payne said her thoughts were with Dr Moore-Gilbert and efforts to secure her release were an “absolute prior­ity and continue without pause”.

“We continue to seek regular consular access to Dr Moore-Gilbert,’’ the minister said.

“While we work hard to bring her home, our utmost priority is on her health, wellbeing and safety. The government believes the best approach to secure Dr Moore-Gilbert’s release is through diplomatic channels.” 

Dr Moore-Gilbert’s family also released a statement, saying Sunday would mark “two years of unimaginable pain”.  “We love Kylie very much and we remain strong and far from losing hope.

“For those who also know and love Kylie, they will recognise her fortitude and strength. We know this strength remains with her throughout this ordeal.

“We thank the federal govern­ment for its continued and persistent efforts to bring Kylie home, and we thank the Australian public for their continu­ed support and concern.

“We all want the same thing, which is Kylie’s safe return soon. We are very grateful for the privacy that has been shown to our family and hope … it continues.” 

Opposition foreign affairs spokeswoman Penny Wong said Labor’s thoughts were with Dr Moore-Gilbert and her family and the party supported the ­government’s efforts.

“We reject the charges under which she is being held,” Senator Wong said. “Dr Moore-Gilbert’s family, friends and colleagues have worked tirelessly to ensure she is not forgotten, and Labor will continue to advocate for her safe return to them soon.”

The University of Melbourne said the plight of Dr Moore-Gilbert was unimaginable and deeply distressing to her family, colleagues and friends.

Vice-Chancellor Duncan Maskell said that Dr Moore-Gilbert was “always in our thoughts and we wish she could be at home with her family, friends and University colleagues.”

“On the second anniversary of her detention, the University remains in close contact with the Government, DFAT, her family and colleagues and offers every support during this incredibly difficult time.

“Kylie’s health, safety and freedom is our absolute priority,” Professor Maskell said.