YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

If someone from your family or community has disappeared, we understand what you're facing. 

The Disappeared Project is a First Nations-led organisation building the support systems that should already exist.

Right now, we have limited capacity to provide direct support. 

We're in the early stages of building resources, networks, and infrastructure. However, we can offer guidance where possible and are documenting cases for Australia's first comprehensive database of disappeared First Nations people.

If someone has just disappeared: Report to police immediately. Do not wait 24 hours. Then contact us.

The first 24-48 hours are critical. Here's what you need to do right now:

1. REPORT TO POLICE IMMEDIATELY

Do not wait 24 hours. This is a myth. You have the right to report someone missing immediately if you have genuine concerns for their safety.

• Go to your local police station in person if possible
• If you can't get there, call the police assistance line for your state
• Clearly state: "I need to report a missing person. I have serious concerns for their safety."
• Do not let police dismiss your concerns. If they suggest waiting or imply the person has "gone walkabout," push back. Your knowledge of your family member matters.

2. DOCUMENT EVERYTHING FROM THIS MOMENT FORWARD

Start a timeline and keep detailed records:

• Date and time you reported to police
• Name and badge number of officers you spoke with
• What police said they would do
• Any reference numbers or case numbers given
• Every phone call, visit, or interaction with authorities
• Keep copies of everything - texts, photos, any communication

Why this matters: If the police response is inadequate, this documentation becomes crucial for advocacy and accountability.

3. GATHER CRITICAL INFORMATION

Collect these details to provide to police and share with community:

• Recent photo (the most recent and clear photo available)
• Physical description (height, build, distinguishing features)
• What they were wearing when last seen
• Where they were last seen (exact location and time)
• Who they were with or going to meet
• Their mobile phone number
• Vehicle description and registration (if applicable)
• Medical information (medications they need, health conditions)
• Any concerning circumstances or threats

4. MOBILISE YOUR COMMUNITY IMMEDIATELY

Don't wait for police to organise searches:

• Contact family, friends, Elders - spread the word quickly
• Check places they frequent (friends' homes, usual spots, community centres)
• Organise community searches of the local area
• Post on community Facebook groups and social media with photo and details
• Contact local Aboriginal organisations and services
• Ask people to check their properties, sheds, CCTV footage

Your community often knows the area better than police. Trust your knowledge.

5. REQUEST SPECIFIC ACTIONS FROM POLICE

You have the right to ask police to:

• Conduct immediate welfare checks at known addresses
• Review CCTV footage from the area
• Check hospitals and medical centres
• Issue an official missing person report
• Conduct searches in areas you've identified
• Interview witnesses you've identified
• Request phone records and location data
• Escalate to detectives if circumstances are suspicious

Be specific and persistent. Write down what you're requesting.

6. MANAGE MEDIA CAREFULLY

Media attention can help, but it needs to be done right:

• Control the narrative - choose the photo and information shared
• Emphasise their humanity
• Focus on their loved ones wanting them home
• Be cautious about what details you share publicly
• Consider contacting media yourself rather than waiting for police

The Disappeared Project can provide guidance on media engagement when you're ready.

7. LOOK AFTER YOURSELF AND YOUR FAMILY

This is traumatic. You need support:

• Lean on family and community
• Accept help when offered
• Eat and rest when you can
• Connect with Elders and community for cultural support
• Access counselling services if needed

You cannot pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself helps you keep searching.

8. CONTACT THE DISAPPEARED PROJECT

Once you've taken these immediate steps:

• Reach out to us for guidance and support
• Share your loved one's case for our database
• We can provide advice on navigating systems
• We can connect you with our network of advocates

We have limited capacity right now, but we will support you where we can.