UPDATE: Authorities have charged Joshua Brown, a 27-year-old man from Point Cook, with an alarming 83 additional charges related to alleged sexual assaults at various childcare centres across Melbourne. This significant development comes as part of an ongoing investigation that has sent shockwaves through the community.
Police confirmed that Brown, who worked at 23 childcare centres in Melbourne’s northern and western suburbs between January 2017 and May 2025, now faces charges involving four new victims in addition to previous allegations involving eight victims. The details of these new allegations are both troubling and urgent, including multiple counts of the penetration of a child under 12 and sexual assault of a child under 16. Furthermore, charges have been laid for using a carriage service to transmit child abuse material and even bestiality, which is part of a separate investigation unrelated to the childcare centres.
The new victims were reportedly associated with the following centres: Nino Early Learning Adventures in Point Cook on 26 March 2019; Only About Children in Williamstown on 1 December 2020 and again on 22 February 2021; and Aussie Kindies Early Learning Centre in Keilor between 3-11 February 2025. The families of these victims have been notified, adding to the emotional toll this case has inflicted on the community.
Police have reassured the public that previous health testing recommendations for children at the implicated centres remain in place, and no further testing will be required at this time. A dedicated website, established by the state government, provides a comprehensive list of employment locations, dates, and support resources for affected families. The site can be accessed at: https://www.vic.gov.au/childcare-centres-investigation.
As this case develops, authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward. Community members can report tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au or by calling 1800 333 000. The police are determined to ensure justice for all affected, emphasizing the urgency of community involvement in this ongoing investigation.
This situation is evolving rapidly, and the implications are profound for the families involved and the broader community. Stay tuned for further updates as more information becomes available.
