Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead is encouraging the community to trust their instincts and not wait to report someone missing if there are concerns for their wellbeing.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
National Missing Persons Week runs from August 2-8 and aims to reduce the incidence and impact of missing persons in Australia.
Every year more than 35,000 people are reported missing across the country – with around 12,500 in NSW. This equates to one person disappearing every 15 minutes.
Mr Bromhead said he knows from his experience as a police officer that although the majority of people are located within a short period, there are approximately 650 long-term missing person cases in NSW.
“Missing Persons Week serves as a reminder of the challenges families across the community face daily trying to find answers,” Mr Bromhead said.
“We must look out for one another and identify signs that someone isn’t coping and recognise if behaviour is out of character - help is just a phone call away.
“In our district there are a significant number of elderly people some of whom may want to step outside and go for a walk before telling someone.
“If you have concerns for a family, friend, neighbour or colleague I urge you to follow your instincts and report to the police.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Justice and Police Troy Grant stressed there is no minimum time frame to wait before contacting NSW Police with a missing persons report.
“If you have fears for the welfare of a loved one I urge you to come forward so the NSW Police Force can assist as soon as possible,” Mr Grant said.
“I thank the NSW Police Force who work tirelessly with communities across the State following leads and supporting and reuniting families.”
Ms Upton said friends and family members of those missing a loved one can get support from the Families and Friends of Missing Persons Unit (FFMPU)
“Friends and families do not need to suffer alone during what can be a very distressing, confusing and emotional time,” Ms Upton said.
“The unit does an incredible job supporting families and friends as they deal with the challenges of not knowing what has happened to a missing loved one.”
For more information on National Missing Persons Week go to www.missingpersons.gov.au. To find out about the Families and Friends of Missing Persons Unit go to www.missingpersons.justice.nsw.gov.au.
