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What other search agencies can assist in finding my missing loved one, other than police?

When a case doesn’t fit the police definition of a missing person, i.e. 'someone whose whereabouts are unknown and there are concerns for their safety and welfare', there are other agencies you can turn to for help.

Search agencies operate global search networks with the aim of reuniting family members with those who have lost contact, whether it be as a result of long-term disconnect, adoption, child abduction, or separation as a direct result of war or disaster. These types of searches are referred to as 'family tracing' matters.

If there is an active police investigation, it is important to inform your case officer that you are considering using these services.

Resources for conducting your own search

  • The Australian Red Cross is part of the global Restoring Family Links network and provides free of charge and confidential services to assist Australians with:

    • Finding a family member missing as a result of war, disaster or migration through family tracing.
    • Sending a message to a relative where there is no formal means of communication.
    • Checking the welfare of a relative overseas whom you are unable to reach due to illness or other circumstances.

    To connect with the Australian Red Cross, please visit their website. 

  • Link-Up provides First Nations people who have been affected by Government policies resulting in the separation of families with ongoing research support in family tracing. There are Link-Up organisations in most states and territories, however please note, services do not operate in the ACT or Tasmania. 

    To connect with Link-Up, please visit their website.

  • An Australia wide electronic version of the Electoral Roll is able for viewing at AEC offices in each state and territory. 

  • The White Pages is a free online telephone directory which can search business and government or residential. Information found on the White Pages can be cross referenced with information found on the Electoral Roll.

  • Social media can be a powerful tool for locating friends or family who you have lost contact with. As of January 2024, 78.3% of the Australian population are recorded to use social media websites, such as Facebook, Instagram and X. 

    Search tips include:

    • Broadly searching multiple social media websites.
    • Narrowing down searches to local community groups in the town, city or area that your lost contact has had previous associations with. 
    • Broadly searching search engines.