Childcare Worker’s Charges Prompt Disease Screenings

Parents express concerns after a worker faces multiple sex offense accusations.

Following charges against a childcare worker accused of numerous sex offenses, over 1,000 children require screenings for infectious diseases, leaving parents worried and seeking answers.

Details of the Case

**Joshua Brown**, 26, was charged on May 12 with over 70 offenses related to eight victims at the Creative Garden Early Learning Centre in Point Cook, Melbourne, between April 2022 and January 2023.

After allegedly being found with child abuse material, **Brown**’s arrest led to a sexual crimes squad investigation, revealing he worked at 20 childcare centers from January 2017 to May 2025.

At this stage, we are recommending that around 1200 children undergo testing for infectious diseases, said Victorian chief health officer **Christian McGrath**.

Officials stated that the infections are treatable with antibiotics, though specifics weren’t disclosed.

**Brown** faces severe charges, including sexual penetration and assault of a child under 12, and producing child abuse material. The families of the alleged victims, aged five months to two years, were informed recently.

Parental Concerns and Reactions

One father, wishing to remain anonymous, expressed frustration at the lack of information regarding potential impacts on others. He recounted difficulties contacting the Health Department’s hotline for families after his son attended the Point Cook center in 2022.

It’s unbelievable, so sad, he told reporters at the center. We need more information to take any action.

Broader Implications and Response

The centers where **Brown** worked are primarily in Melbourne’s west, encompassing locations like Wyndham Vale, Williamstown, and others.

Childcare giant G8 Education, which manages the Point Cook center, acknowledged the charges against a former team member. A spokesperson conveyed the seriousness of the allegations and the company’s commitment to supporting those affected.

An additional allegation of offenses at an Essendon childcare center is under police investigation.

Letters containing crucial information are being sent to around 2,600 families who had children at the implicated centers during **Brown**’s employment. Although police are not currently alleging offenses occurred at the other centers, they urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers.

**Jason Clare**, the Education Minister, described the alleged crimes as sickening, emphasizing the need for enhanced safety measures in early education.

Before his arrest, **Brown** was not known to police and possessed a valid working with children check. Investigations suggest all alleged offenses occurred within Victoria, with no evidence of other staff involvement.

Australian Childcare Alliance president **Paul Mondo** stated that the charges would horrify all Australians. According to a 2023 study by the Australian Institute of Family Studies, ensuring children’s safety in childcare settings is a paramount concern for parents (AIFS).

As a sector, we are committed to improving child safety measures and will continue to work with governments across Australia to keep children safe, he stated.

**Premier Jacinta Allan** said the allegations would deeply disturb parents and educators. The government established a support hotline, but there have been reports of access delays, which Opposition Leader **Brad Battin** insists must be addressed urgently.

**Brown** remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in court on September 15.