PERTH, AUSTRALIA - MAY 16: Labor Leader Anthony Albanese visits a childcare centre in Kalamunda, which is in Coalition-held seat of Hasluck,on May 16, 2022 in Perth, Australia. The Australian federal election will be held on Saturday 21 May, 2022. (Photo by Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images)
UPDATE: In a shocking turn of events, the Victorian Parliament has just blocked critical reforms aimed at strengthening child safety in the wake of a devastating child abuse scandal. The Worker Screening Amendment (Safety of Children) Bill 2025, proposed by the Nationals and Liberal Party, was defeated, leaving the community in outrage and disbelief.
This urgent legislation was introduced following grave reports that Joshua Dale Brown, an alleged perpetrator, faces an astonishing 70 charges related to child abuse involving children as young as 2 months to 5 years old. Brown reportedly worked at 24 childcare centres between January 2017 and May 2025, raising critical questions about the effectiveness of the current Working With Children Check (WWCC) system.
Parents and advocates are demanding answers: How was Brown able to evade detection and work with vulnerable children? The community is reeling from the news, with families now urged by authorities to have their children tested for sexually transmitted diseases—a traumatic experience for many.
Despite the clear need for reform, Premier Jacinta Allan and her Labor Party voted against the proposed amendments. Critics, including Shadow Attorney General Michael O’Brien, have condemned this decision, stating, “Today Labor put playing politics ahead of protecting Victorian children.” The lack of action has left many questioning the government’s commitment to child safety.
The Victorian Ombudsman had urged immediate reforms back in 2022, highlighting existing gaps in the system that continue to put children at risk. Yet, the Allan government has remained stagnant, prompting calls for accountability and decisive action.
As Premier Allan announced an urgent review of the WWCC permit system, skepticism lingers. “The allegations are shocking and distressing,” she stated. “My heart just breaks for those families.” However, many are skeptical that these words translate into meaningful action.
In contrast, neighboring New South Wales has taken swift measures following similar concerns. Premier Dominic Perrottet is set to introduce legislation next week to strengthen child safety protocols, emphasizing that protecting children must transcend political agendas.
The failure of the Victorian government to act decisively is a bitter disappointment for families affected by the scandal. As the community grapples with the implications of Brown’s alleged actions, the urgency for reform has never been clearer. Parents and advocates are left wondering: Will the government prioritize the safety of children, or will political maneuvering continue to overshadow the need for immediate reform?
As this story develops, the pressure mounts on the Victorian government to take meaningful steps to ensure the safety of its youngest citizens. The eyes of the community are firmly fixed on Premier Allan and her administration, demanding accountability and action.
The time for political games is over. The safety of children is not a political issue; it is a moral imperative that demands urgent attention and action.
