The AFP-led National Missing Persons Coordination Centre (NMPCC) has unveiled a revamped website, missingpersons.gov.au, to raise awareness about the 2,500 Australians who remain missing long-term.
Launched today, Monday, 9 December 2024, the upgraded platform features a user-friendly design, an improved search function, and clear language to enhance accessibility. It also provides vital information on support services, investigative processes, and prevention tools, alongside a public register to search profiles of missing persons.
Joanne Cameron, AFP Commander Forensics, emphasised the importance of public involvement in finding missing persons.
“Missing persons is a complex and serious issue, and we rely on the public to report information that could be crucial in locating someone,” she said. “The impact of a missing person is felt far and wide, affecting families, schools, workplaces, and entire communities.”
Every year, around 50,000 missing persons reports are lodged with police in Australia. While most individuals are located within a week, some cases remain unresolved. A person is classified as long-term missing if they have been unaccounted for over three months, with young people aged 13 to 17 making up more than half of reported cases.
The reasons people go missing vary widely, from family violence and disputes to health issues, misadventure, or being victims of crime.
The NMPCC, which leads national coordination on missing persons cases, will continue to enhance the website’s functionality. Commander Cameron encouraged Australians to explore the site and view the profiles of those still missing, both domestically and offshore.
“If you have concerns for someone’s safety and welfare, you can report them missing to your local police immediately. There’s no need to wait 24 hours,” she added.
For further information, visit missingpersons.gov.au.
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