Settlement Guide: 5 things to know about reporting a missing person

In Australia, anyone can be reported missing to police if their whereabouts are unknown, and there are serious concerns for their safety and welfare. Police will investigate and attempt to locate the missing person. So, what to do if someone you know goes missing?

Police Sign

Source: AAP

1. You don’t have to wait 24 hours to report someone as missing

Missing person
Source: Yui Yui Hoi/Getty Images

2. A missing persons report can be filed at any local police station

Reports over the phone are only accepted in South Australia. Contact your local police station to discuss your needs if you are unable to attend the police station to lodge a report.

Missing persons
Source: Australian government

3. Give the police as much relevant information as you can

It will help the police if you can provide detailed description of the person, name and contact details of friends, Centrelink benefits they may have been receiving, passport details, medical requirements, and any other factors that give you concern for their current well-being.

Missing person in water
Source: AAP

4. When making a missing persons report, the police may take full details straight away

The police may carry out initial enquiries and come back to you for more detailed information if the person is not located within a short period of time.

Missing people poster
Source: Rattlenoun CC BY SA 4.0

5. Keep a record of the report

It may be helpful to record the following information - event number for the investigation, police station and rank and name of Police Officer in Charge.

New South Wales Police badge
Stock image of New South Wales Police badges in Sydney, Friday, Aug. 16, 2013. (AAP Image/Dean Lewins) NO ARCHIVING Source: AAP

Freecall 1800 000 634.

If you need an interpreter contact TIS National Services on 13 14 50.

More information is available in Missing people: A guide for families and friends of missing people.

 

 


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By Ildiko Dauda

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Settlement Guide: 5 things to know about reporting a missing person | SBS Chinese