G8 Education, one of Australia’s largest private childcare providers, has announced an accelerated rollout of CCTV across its 400+ centres following serious child sexual abuse allegations against a former employee, BBC reported.

Joshua Dale Brown, 26, faces over 70 charges, including child rape, allegedly committed against eight children at a Melbourne centre between 2022 and 2023. He had worked at 20 childcare centres since 2017. Authorities have asked the families of around 1,200 children under his care to undergo precautionary medical tests.

In response, G8 will also allow parents to nominate who can change their children’s nappies and escort them to the toilet. Managing Director Pejman Okhovat apologised to affected families and pledged support and transparency, including an independent review after legal proceedings conclude.

While the company is committed to privacy and regulatory compliance, concerns remain among experts. Child safety advocates argue that CCTV is not a foolproof safeguard, citing past cases where abuse occurred despite surveillance. Others warn it may create a false sense of security and could lead to unintended consequences, such as gender bias in staffing, according to BBC.

Brown remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in court in September.