Former early childhood educator jailed over repeated indecent assaults

This article contains details of child sexual abuse which may be distressing for some readers. Support services are listed at the end of the article.

A former early childhood educator has been sentenced to two years’ imprisonment by the ACT Supreme Court following his conviction for the indecent assault of a four-year-old boy in his care.

The details of the case were reported by ABC News, which covered the sentencing on 23 October 2025 following Mr Ali’s conviction in the ACT Supreme Court.

Muhammad Ali, who previously worked in a Canberra early learning service, was sentenced on 23 October 2025 after being found guilty in August of an act of indecency involving the child. The court heard the assault occurred in the classroom bathroom in 2021 and involved Ali exposing himself to the boy.

This is the second time Ali has been convicted of child sexual offences while working in early childhood education. In November 2023, he was sentenced to 18 months in prison for a separate incident involving another four-year-old child at the same service.

In handing down the sentence, Acting Justice Peter Berman described Ali’s conduct as “a profound breach of trust”, noting the extreme vulnerability of young children and the trust placed in early learning professionals to protect them.

“There can hardly be a greater breach of trust than the abuse of a child in a childcare centre,” Acting Justice Berman said.

While the maximum penalty for the offence is 10 years’ imprisonment, the court imposed a two-year sentence, with Ali eligible for release in one year. The judge acknowledged Ali’s mental health and prior good character but emphasised the need for community protection and deterrence.

If this article has raised concerns for you or someone you know, support is available:

• Bravehearts: 1800 272 831 – Support for survivors of child sexual abuse and their families
• 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 – National sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service
• Lifeline: 13 11 14 – 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention
• Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 – Free, confidential support for children and young people aged 5–25
• Blue Knot Foundation: 1300 657 380 – Counselling and support for adult survivors of childhood trauma