Melbourne Childcare Worker Faces 70 Sex Charges

Joshua Brown, a 26-year-old childcare worker, has been charged with over 70 child sex offences involving eight children aged between five months and two years at multiple Melbourne and surrounding area centres from 2017 to 2025. Authorities recommend infectious disease testing for approximately 1,200 children who may have come into contact with Brown, who was arrested in May following the alleged discovery of child abuse material. Premier Jacinta Allan called the situation 'shocking and distressing,' and a dedicated hotline has been set up for affected families. Brown had a valid Working with Children Check, and authorities have found no evidence implicating other staff members at this stage. The investigation is ongoing, with reviews into screening procedures for childcare workers underway. Parents have expressed significant distress and anger in response to the charges.