The Victorian government has announced an urgent review into childcare safety following allegations of child sex assault against a worker. Joshua Brown, 26, has been charged with over 70 offences related to abuse at Creative Gardens Early Learning Centre in Point Cook between April 2022 and January 2023.
Premier Jacinta Allan said the state will create its own register for childcare workers to add an extra layer of checks while awaiting the establishment of a national system. Additionally, a ban on personal devices in all Victorian childcare centres will be implemented by September 26, with non-compliant centres facing fines up to $50,000.
The review, led by an appointed expert to be announced soon, will focus on immediate safety improvements, including exploring the installation of CCTV cameras and assessing the national childcare framework to potentially accelerate protective measures. The government expects the review report by August 15 and pledges to adopt all recommendations swiftly.
To support affected families, the government will offer a $5,000 Immediate Needs Payment for those whose children require precautionary testing, helping cover work leave, alternative care arrangements, and medical or mental health expenses.
Brown remains in police custody and is due to appear in court on September 15. Support services are available through the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).
