Summary of Childcare Abuse Allegations in Melbourne
This week, Melbourne has been shaken by serious allegations of abuse within the childcare system, leading to an extensive response from both state and federal authorities. Recent revelations suggest that the case may involve more victims than initially believed.
A mother, identified as Amanda, has confirmed that her child was in the care of the accused, Joshua Brown, on three separate occasions during October and November 2024 at Papilio Childcare in Essendon. Although Papilio is included in a list released by authorities earlier this week, the flagged dates for the centre are from February 17, 2025, to May 9, 2025.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities have reached out to about 2,600 families, but Amanda has not been contacted, leaving her feeling both ill and guilty for having placed her trust in that environment. Amanda became aware of the situation when her sister shared a Facebook post from Victoria Police. Upon discovering that Brown had worked at the centre, she searched through past photos on a daycare app, confirming his attendance on dates that were not included in the official police release.
Since then, Amanda has reported her findings to Crime Stoppers and informed other parents of children who shared the same classroom last year. Many of those families also reported not being contacted regarding the matter.
Joshua Brown has faced over 70 child abuse charges, having worked at approximately 20 childcare centres across Melbourne since 2017. He has not yet entered a plea regarding these accusations. The CEO of The Parenthood, Georgie Dent, indicated that Amanda’s experience reflects larger systemic issues in the for-profit childcare system, highlighting the dangers of employing an underqualified casual workforce that may expose children to unfit caregivers. Dent advocates for a workforce where experienced and adequately supported staff are standard.
In an official statement, Victoria Police acknowledged that the investigation into Brown’s employment history is ongoing and that additional details will be released as they become available. They have encouraged anyone with further information to contact Crime Stoppers.
For those seeking support, Lifeline, Beyond Blue, and Kids Helpline are available resources for individuals in distress.