Shocking Allegations Rock Melbourne’s Childcare Sector
Victoria Police have charged 26-year-old Joshua Brown of Point Cook with more than 70 offences following an investigation into alleged child sexual abuse at a Melbourne childcare centre. Around 1,200 children in Victoria are set to undergo infectious disease testing after the incident came to light. The alleged offences, which include sexual penetration of a child under 12 and possession of child abuse material, have left the community devastated. The accused, known fully as Joshua Dale Brown, allegedly targeted eight children aged between five months and two years while employed at a childcare centre in Point Cook.
Creative Gardens Early Learning Centre, Point Cook, pictured on Tuesday. [Credit: Justin McManus]
The charges relate to incidents that reportedly occurred between April 2022 and January 2023. Police say Brown worked at 20 childcare centres across Melbourne from January 2017 to May 2025. As a result, the Department of Health has urged 1,200 children to undergo infectious disease testing due to potential exposure risks.
Police Launch Major Investigation
Acting Commander Janet Stevenson said detectives from the Sexual Crimes Squad began investigating Joshua Brown Melbourne in May 2025. Police allegedly found child abuse material during a search of his Point Cook residence, leading to his arrest. Officers have since worked with multiple agencies to contact affected families and ensure they receive appropriate support.
Acting Commander Janet Stevenson stated that the accused held a valid Working with Children Check. [Credit: ABC News]
“Our number one priority was to identify any potential victims and Mr Brown’s employment history,” Stevenson said. She confirmed Brown held a valid Working with Children Check, which has now been revoked. Police successfully lifted a suppression order on his identity to alert the public and provide transparency. “This is unique – it’s very important to ensure every parent out there knows who he is and where he worked,” she stated.
Premier and Officials Respond with Distress
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan described the allegations against Joshua Dale Brown as “sickening.” She added, “My heart just breaks for the families that are living every parent’s worst nightmare.” Allan said the government had launched an immediate investigation into the centres where Brown worked and was reviewing the Working with Children Check system.
“This will be felt far beyond the families affected. We will take every action within our power to keep Victorian children safe,” she said, affirming the need for urgent regulatory reforms.
Deputy Premier Jacinta Allan expressed “sickness” at the allegations, and pledged to take all measures to keep children safe. [Credit: NewsWire/David Crosling]
Chief Health Officer Christian McGrath echoed the concern. He said the Department of Health had contacted 2,600 families and recommended 1,200 children undergo testing for infectious diseases. “We do believe it’s a low risk,” McGrath said, “but this is a very complex and distressing matter, and our highest priority is the health and wellbeing of the children and families.”
McGrath clarified that any potential infections could be treated with antibiotics and there was no risk to broader public health.
Brown Remanded in Custody
Police remanded Joshua Brown in custody after his arrest and he is due to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 15 September 2025. Police are continuing to investigate possible offences at other childcare facilities, including one located in Essendon.
Detectives believe Brown acted alone and have found no evidence suggesting other staff members were involved. Families connected to every childcare centre he worked at have been notified and issued letters with instructions and healthcare advice.
“These are some of the most vulnerable members of our community,” Acting Commander Stevenson said. “The conversations police have had to have with their families were no doubt life-changing in the worst possible way.”
Support and Caution Urged
Victoria Police and the Department of Health have urged anyone who may have information or concerns related to the investigation to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Affected families have been offered counselling and mental health services, including support from agencies like 1800 RESPECT, Lifeline, and Kids Helpline.
Authorities have also established a dedicated government webpage with information and resources for impacted families.
The Minister for Children, Lizzie Blandthorn, confirmed that federal and state agencies are reviewing the national framework to improve safety in early education settings. The opposition has also called for a comprehensive review of current safeguards, including the Working with Children Check and broader regulatory systems.
The Minister for Children, Lizzie Blandthorn. [Image credit: Diego Fedele/AAP]
A Community in Shock
The case of Joshua Brown Melbourne has triggered an overwhelming response from the public. As details continue to emerge, families across Victoria are demanding greater accountability in childcare services and stricter vetting processes for those entrusted with the care of children.
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While investigations continue, community leaders stress the importance of collective vigilance and support for the victims and their families. For now, Victoria must confront the reality of this “distressing and confronting” case and ensure measures are taken to protect its most vulnerable citizens.
