Report a missing person

If you have any information on a missing person, or wish to report a missing person to police, call Policelink on 131444, or call CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000.

Who is a missing person?

"Missing person" means  any  person,  whether  an  adult  or  child,  reported  to  police  whose  whereabouts  are  unknown  and  where  there are fears for the safety or concerns for the welfare of that person.

When to report a missing person

You do not have to wait 24 hours to report a missing person.

If you fear for someone’s safety and welfare, and their whereabouts is unknown, you can file a missing person’s report at your local police station. Find your local station

The first 24 hours following a person’s disappearance are crucial. The sooner we can follow up leads, such as CCTV footage, the more likely the person will be found safe and well.

What do I do if I see a missing person?

Let your local police know. Information can also be passed to us by  telephoning Policelink on 131 444, or CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000 (free call within Australia).

Any information received will be treated in confidence.

What to report

When you report a missing person, we will ask you to provide as much information as possible. This will include:

• Name, age, home address, employment details 
• A recent, clear and coloured photograph of the missing person
• Details of their physical appearance, what they were wearing and when last seen
• Details of their last known whereabouts and any intended arrangements (for example, if they were travelling by bus to the local shopping centre)
• Details of their social media, telephone and banking information

What the police will do

When you report a missing person in Queensland, we take the lead in managing and investigating the case, including taking the initial missing persons report. 

We may investigate in a variety of ways, including:

• Searching the home address of the missing person to confirm they are not there and find any information or evidence that might help locate them
• Searching the area where the person was last seen (if different from their home address)
• Checking with local hospitals

Reporting an Australian missing overseas

If you have concerns for the safety and welfare of a family member or friend missing overseas, and you have been unable to make contact with them (or any known travelling companions), you can report them missing at your local police station. Find your local station

For more information see National Missing Persons Coordination Centre. 

What if I am reported missing?

If you have been reported missing, it is vital that you let us know you are safe and well. Your whereabouts can be kept confidential if you are over the age of 18 years and do not want anyone to know. The person reporting you ​missing will be advised that you are safe and well.

If you are under 18, your whereabouts will not be disclosed if this will endanger you.