What is the investigation about?
A 26-year-old man, Joshua Dale Brown, has been charged with 70 offences relating to the alleged abuse in a childcare centre of eight children at Creative Garden Early Learning Centre in Point Cook, occurring between October 2021 and February 2024.
Police are continuing their investigation into his conduct at 25 other childcare centres and services where he was employed between 2017 and 2025. As a result, Victorian authorities have advised more than 1,200 families to have their young children undergo precautionary STI testing.
Can I join the investigation?
Shine Lawyers is actively investigating these childcare centre abuse claims, including the potential for a group action, to seek justice for affected families, and to hold those responsible accountable for the serious harm and distress caused.
If this has affected you or your family, you can begin a confidential, no-obligation enquiry at no cost, by clicking the button below.
If you have any immediate concerns or would like to speak confidentially, please contact our team at childcareconcerns@shine.com.au.
We acknowledge the very significant impact on those affected, and we encourage families to visit their general practitioners.
Further support and information may be available at the following organisations:
Call Parentline on 1300 301 300. It’s a free, confidential phone service that offers counselling and referrals (6am to 12am AEST, 7 days a week).
Call Bravehearts toll free support line on 1800 272 831 (8.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday AEST). It can be accessed by anyone wanting information, advice and support relating to child sexual assault, and how to proceed to protect and support their loved one.
If you are an adult who has been a victim of child abuse call the Blue Knot Helpline on 1300 657 380 to talk to an experienced trauma therapist.
Call the ChildWise National Child Abuse Prevention Helpline on 1800 991 099 for advice around child abuse.
The National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (NAPCAN) advocates on behalf of children and young people and aims to prevent child abuse through their campaigns and programs.
Call Centre Against Sexual Assault (CASA) on 03 5441 0430. CASA offers counselling and support for all women and young women aged 12 years and over who have experienced sexual assault.
Call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Lifeline is a 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention service available to anyone experiencing emotional distress.
Call Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800. This is a free, confidential counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Call Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. Beyond Blue provides mental health support and information to people experiencing anxiety, depression or other mental health challenges (24/7).
Call SANE Australia on 1800 187 263. SANE offers support for people affected by complex mental health issues, as well as their families and carers (Monday to Friday, 10am to 10pm AEST).
Meet the team
The experienced abuse lawyers and sexual abuse lawyers in our Abuse Law team have undertaken trauma-informed training. In addition to their legal knowledge and experience, our Abuse Law team members are empathetic and compassionate, and will guide you or your loved one through each step in the legal process.
You can learn more about the team running this investigation by clicking on their profile below.
