Potential Class Action for alleged childcare abuse

A Victorian man accused of sexual offences against female toddlers at a childcare centre says he was unaware he was banned from working in the industry for four months and that his case has exposed more flaws in the system.

Peter, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has worked at nine childcare centres in the Ballarat region, including five Goodstart centres. He denies the claims and any wrongdoing.

He was banned by the Victorian Education Department in December 2024, but retained a valid Working with Children Check (WWCC) for another eight months, until August 2025.

Arnold Thomas & Becker principal lawyer Kim Price said his firm was preparing to seek compensation for affected families and was exploring the possibility of a class action against Goodstart.

Mr Price said hundreds of Victorian families had come forward with allegations of sexual misconduct by childcare workers in centres, including those run by providers other than Goodstart, across the state. provide clear legal advice, support, and to explore all possible avenues for compensation and justice.”

Read the full story in the media.

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