Melbourne Child Care Worker Charged with Sexual Assault, 1,200 Children Urged to Get Tested

Victoria state Police Deputy Commissioner Wendy Steendam, center, acting Police Commander Janet Stevenson, left, and Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan, appear at a news conference in Melbourne, Australia, July 1, 2025

Victoria Police confirmed the charges relate to eight alleged victims from a child care center in Point Cook, where Brown worked between April 2022 and January 2023. Investigators fear more children may be involved, as Brown was employed at over 20 child care centers across Melbourne from 2017 until his arrest in May 2025. Detectives are also examining potential offenses at a second facility in Essendon.

Authorities have contacted 2,600 families whose children attended the two centers during Brown’s employment. Of these, 1,200 children have been advised to undergo medical testing due to the nature of the alleged crimes.

Victoria’s Chief Health Officer, Dr. Christian McGrath, stated that while the risk of infection is low, testing is recommended as a precaution. "We want to provide assurance to parents about their children’s health," he said, noting that any potential infections could be treated with antibiotics.

Acting Commander Janet Stevenson described the case as deeply distressing, emphasizing the vulnerability of the victims. "These conversations with families have been life-changing in the worst possible way," she said.

Premier Jacinta Allan expressed horror at the allegations, calling them "every parent’s worst nightmare." Brown, who had a valid child care certification and no prior criminal record, remains in custody and is set to appear in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on September 15.