Victorian health authorities and police are calling on parents and carers to verify if their children attended childcare centres where a man named Joshua Brown was employed. Brown, 26, faces 70 charges, including child sexual assault, involving eight alleged victims at Creative Gardens Early Learning Centre, as well as allegations from a second centre in Essendon.
Given the serious nature of the allegations, a public health initiative is underway, urging around 1,200 children to undergo screening for potential infectious diseases linked to Brown’s time at these facilities. Authorities stress that affected families have already been informed directly via email, text, or post, but those yet to be contacted likely do not require additional health information. However, families who may have moved or changed contact details should check the list of childcare centres and can reach out to a hotline for assistance.
Brown’s employment history spans numerous centres across Melbourne from January 2017 to May 2025, including notable institutions such as Nino Early Learning Adventures and Explorers Early Learning. Police advise that the list of affected centres may evolve as the investigation continues.
While this situation is deeply unsettling for the community, police acting commander Janet Stevenson reassured the public that unless contacted by police, there’s no evidence suggesting a child has been offended against. Families of the eight alleged victims have already been notified directly. The police encourage anyone with concerns about their child’s safety or further information to report to Crime Stoppers.
Support services are being made available for impacted families, including potential financial aid to assist with alternative care needs. Eligible families may receive up to $5,000, which will be evaluated by the Department of Health.
For those looking for resources or counselling services, additional support is accessible, and families are urged to engage with organisations like 1800RESPECT for 24/7 assistance. It’s vital for parents to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing any concerns regarding their children’s wellbeing in light of these serious allegations.