In response to disturbing allegations of abuse, G8 Education is implementing comprehensive safety measures across its 400 childcare centres in Australia. The changes come after Joshua Dale Brown, a former employee at the Creative Garden Early Learning Centre in Point Cook, Victoria, was charged with allegedly abusing eight children between April 2022 and January 2023, some as young as five months.
Enhanced Safety Measures
As part of its response, G8 Education announced that it will expedite the rollout of CCTV systems at all its centres. This move follows successful trials at several locations. Additionally, parents will have more involvement in their children’s care routines through expanded Individual Learning Plans, allowing them to specify which educators manage tasks such as nappy changes and toileting.
G8’s managing director and chief executive, Pejman Okhovat, has personally engaged with affected families in Victoria. He expressed deep regret over the situation, stating, “These allegations are deeply disturbing, and our hearts go out to the children and families involved.” Okhovat also emphasized the company’s focus on supporting impacted families and staff while cooperating with Victoria Police and other authorities in the ongoing investigation.
Sector-Wide Reforms
Beyond its internal measures, G8 Education has called for industry-wide reforms. The company advocates for the creation of a national educator register and a unified Working with Children Check across states, alongside a national employment history register for early childhood workers. These proposals aim to enhance child safety across the sector.
In a statement to investors, G8 also committed to commissioning an independent review of the incident after legal proceedings conclude. The company acknowledges its current safety policies, which include banning personal devices in childcare rooms and enforcing mandatory reporting protocols, but recognizes the need for further enhancements.
Authorities have disclosed the names of 20 childcare centres where Brown was employed, instructing parents and caregivers of 1,200 children to have them tested for sexually transmitted infections as a precaution.
G8 Education continues to work closely with authorities to ensure justice for the affected children and families, reinforcing its commitment to child safety and sector reform.
