Victoria Police are investigating allegations of sexual assault against children in several childcare centers across Melbourne.
Content Warning: This article contains information about an allegation of inappropriate sexual conduct towards children.
Dedicated Advice Line
Due to the high volume of calls, there may be a wait before you speak with a call taker. We appreciate your understanding as we prioritize affected families.
You can check the list of childcare centers involved before calling to ensure that families who most need the information can get through quickly.
The advice line is open 7 days a week, from 8am to 9pm on weekdays and 8am to 5pm on weekends.
Background
Victoria Police are investigating alleged sexual assaults linked to an employee who worked at several childcare centers across Melbourne.
The alleged offender has been arrested and charged by police and is in custody. The offences charged are alleged to have occurred at Creative Gardens Early Learning Centre, Point Cook.
As part of this ongoing matter, investigators are also examining evidence of an allegation of offending at a second childcare center in Essendon, which is being investigated as a priority. The allegations have not been proved.
Health Advice
This is a complex and distressing matter, and our highest priority is the health and wellbeing of the children and families who may have been affected.
A public health response has been set up, and wrap-around supports are available through a dedicated advice and support hotline.
If Your Child Attended One of the Listed Childcare Centers
If your child attended one of the listed childcare centers, you may be contacted by the Department of Health or Victoria Police with key information and advice on testing for infectious diseases.
You can also call the dedicated advice line to discuss whether your child is recommended for testing and advice on where you can book a free test near you.
If You Haven’t Been Contacted
If you haven’t been contacted by Victoria Police or received a direct notification from the Department of Health, it is likely that you or your child have not been identified as someone needing further public health information in relation to this matter. However, if you believe your child was at the center at that time, please contact the dedicated advice line.
If You Are a Staff Member at One of the Listed Childcare Centers
Testing is not currently recommended for staff members, however, you can speak to your GP if you have any concerns about your health. There are also a range of available supports and counseling available to assist you.
Financial Supports
Some families will be eligible for a payment of $5,000 to help with alternative care arrangements, loss of earnings, and other practical needs. The Department of Health will let you know if you are eligible and explain how you can access the payment.
Further Supports Available
If you are concerned about your child in any way, or feel that you need support yourself, always seek professional advice. A good place to start is your family GP and your existing networks. Sexual assault support services are available across Victoria for adults, children, and young people who have experienced both past and recent sexual assault.
Translations
Call the dedicated advice line and let them know if you need an interpreter. Translated trauma reaction and recovery factsheets are available at the Better Health Channel.
Safety in Early Childhood Education
The health, safety, and wellbeing of children attending early childhood services is the highest priority. All early childhood services in Victoria must comply with the Child Safe Standards, which require organizations involving children to have policies, procedures, and practices to keep them safe.
Raising Concerns
Under the National Law, services must report matters including any serious incidents, allegations of abuse, and any complaints alleging that a serious incident has occurred. These matters are investigated by the Regulatory Authority.
Victims of Crime Resources
Victims of Crime Helpline, Victims Assistance Program, Victims of Crime Financial Assistance Scheme, Victims Legal Service, Child and Youth Witness Service, and Victims and Witness Assistance Service (Office of Public Prosecutions) are available for support.
Childcare Centers Where Alleged Offender Worked
The dedicated advice line will be able to advise whether your child is recommended for testing. Please note that this is an ongoing investigation, and the childcare sites and dates listed below are subject to change.