NCJ Number
223324
Date Published
March 2008
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This paper summarizes key findings from a recent Australian national project updating information on recorded incidents of missing persons and by focusing on current responses and potential measures to improve practices.
Abstract
Since national research was last conducted in Australia 10 years ago, there have been considerable steps taken to improve responses to missing persons including the development of the Australian Federal Police and the Family and Friends Missing Persons Unit (FFMPU) in New South Wales (NSW), Federal funding to support a range of activities, a nationally agreed policing policy and increased efforts to progress on an enhanced national database held by CrimTrac. Highlights of key priorities for the missing persons sectors currently being addressed include: (1) the implementation of uniform standards for data collection and data entry/recording processes across all police jurisdictions; (2) specialized training of police and staff within key agencies involved with missing person incidents; (3) increased focus on how both the government and nongovernment sectors can compliment police and other search agencies’ efforts to locate missing persons; and (4) specific research into certain subpopulations more likely to not report to the police. Investigating missing person cases is a complex field. Police services across Australia play a crucial role in responding to reports of missing persons, complemented by nongovernment search agencies. This research project sought to update existing data on missing persons from all Australian State and territory sources with a view to identifying at-risk groups; identify good practices in relation to preventative measures, early intervention, support services, and referral mechanisms; develop a more networked approach to policy and practice; and identify and establish a solid base for future research. Table, figure, and references