CCTV installation to expand across G8 services amid safeguarding concerns

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G8 Education will install closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems in every one of its early learning centres, in a move aimed at restoring trust and bolstering child safety following shocking child abuse allegations involving a former educator.

The announcement follows the arrest of 26-year-old Joshua Dale Brown, who has been charged with more than 70 offences linked to alleged incidents involving eight children at Creative Gardens Early Learning in Point Cook, Victoria. The service is operated by G8 Education, one of Australia’s largest early childhood education and care (ECEC) providers.

The charges have sent shockwaves through the sector and prompted widespread scrutiny of safeguarding practices, regulatory oversight, and employment history checks for educators working with children.

In a statement issued to the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), G8 Education managing director and chief executive Pejman Okhovat confirmed the company would accelerate the installation of CCTV in all its centres. This follows a previous trial of surveillance systems across a selection of sites.

“These allegations are deeply disturbing, and our hearts go out to the children and families involved,” Mr Okhovat said. “Our primary focus right now is on supporting all families who are impacted, as well as our team members in Victoria.”

Mr Okhovat acknowledged the distressing nature of the allegations and also expressed remorse in the wake of the incident.

“I am deeply sorry for the unimaginable pain caused to our families and what they are going through,” he said.

G8 Education also indicated its support for broader systemic reforms, including the establishment of national registries to track the employment histories of educators, and greater consistency in regulation and safeguarding standards across states and territories.

Under the Education and Care Services National Law, approved providers must take all reasonable steps to ensure that children are protected from harm and from any hazard likely to cause injury (Section 167). While the use of CCTV is not mandated by the National Quality Framework (NQF), it is increasingly being adopted by some providers as an added layer of monitoring and accountability.

The case has reignited debate about transparency and information-sharing between providers, as well as the adequacy of current background checking systems under the Working with Children Check framework. There are also ongoing discussions about the balance between surveillance, privacy, and trust in educators and child relationships.

While G8’s CCTV rollout is a significant undertaking, child protection experts stress that technology alone cannot replace robust safeguarding culture, comprehensive policies, strong leadership, and consistent professional development for educators.

If you, or someone you know, is impacted by child sexual abuse or online exploitation, support services are available.

Original coverage: The Sydney Morning Herald, 9 July 2025 and additional reporting: 9News, 9 July 2025.

View the ASX announcement here: G8 Education Update on Child Safety and Protection – G8 Education