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Crime prevention series

A directory of helping services *

Published in:
Missing children : advice, information and preventative action for parents, teachers and counsellors
Paul Wyles
Canberra : Australian Institute of Criminology, 1988
ISBN 0 642 13556 8 ; ISSN 1031-5330
(Crime prevention series) ; pp. 38-66

Note: This directory was correct at the time of publication (in 1988) and is now very out-of-date. The chapter is reproduced for historical interest and completeness.

Illustration

Parts I and II of this booklet provide parents, teachers, counsellors and others concerned with child welfare with information, advice and suggestions aimed at reducing the number of missing children.

This final part, A Directory of Helping Services, provides suggested reading and a comprehensive directory of services for each state and territory.

Parents can do much to learn about the best ways to care for their children and prevent harm from coryting to them. Counselling, advice and referral services can p-rovide help to families, parents and children experiencing problems, which may prevent or at least reduce the likelihood of children going missing.

Suggested reading

  • Arenburg, Gerald S., Bartimole, Carmelia R. and Bartimole, John E. (1984), Preventing Missing Children: A Parental Guide to Child Security, Compact Books, Hollywood, FL.
  • Barrow, Lyn (1976), You're too Young! You're Too Old: Some Solutions to the Problems of Teenagers - and Their Parents (2nd ed.), Family Life Movement of Australia, Sydney.
  • Brenton, Myron (1980), How to Survive Your Child's Rebellious Teens: New Solutions for Troubled Parents, Bantam Books, New York.
  • Collins, John K. and Harper, Juliet F. (1983), The Adolescent Boy: An Australian Analysis, Methuen, Sydney.
  • Davitz, Lois Leiderman and Davitz, Joel Robert (1982), How to Live (Almost) Happily with a Teenager, Winston Press, Minneapolis, MN.
  • Eimers, Robert and Aitchison, Robert (1978), Effective Parents, Responsible Children: A Guide to Confident Parenting, McGraw-Hill, New York; London.
  • Einstein, Elizabeth and Albert, Linda (1986), Strengthening your Stepfamily, American Guidance Service, Circle Pines, MN.
  • Einstein, Elizabeth (1985), The Stepfamily: Living, Loving, and Learning, Shambhala, Boston, MS; Random House, New York.
  • Ginott, Haim G. (1973), Between Parent and Teenager (revised ed.), Cassell, London.
  • Gordon, Thomas (1975), PET, Parent Effectiveness Training: The Tested New Way to Raise Responsible Children, New American Library, New York.
  • Gordon, Thomas (1970), Parent Effectiveness Training: The 'Nolose' Program for Raising Responsible Children, P. H. Wyden, New York.
  • Gould, Shirley (1977), Teenagers: The Continuing Challenge, Hawthorn Books, New York.
  • Homan, William E. (1977), Child Sense: A Guide to Loving, Level Headed Parenthood (new and expanded ed.), Basic Books, New York.
  • Isaacs, Susan and Keller, Marti (1979), The Inner Parent: Raising Ourselves, Raising Our Children, Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, New York; London.
  • Jones, Brian (1988), Searching for Tony, Spectrum, Melbourne.
  • Kraizer, Sherryll Kerns (1986), The Safe Child Book, Futura, London.
  • Kubler-Ross, Elisabeth (1970), On Death and Dying, Tavistock, Sydney.
  • Mykyta, Anne-Marie (1981), It's a Long Way to Truro, McPhee Gribble, Melbourne.
  • Redpath, Peter A. (1984), Help Me My Child is Missing! A Missing Child Handbook and Child Saver Guide for Parents and Children, Child Savers, New York.
  • Rogers, Colin D. (1986), Tracing Missing Persons: An Introduction to Agencies Methods and Sources in England and Wales, Manchester University Press, Manchester.
  • Rowlands, Peter (1980), Saturday Parent, Allen and Unwin, London.
  • Turbak, Gary (1982), 'Missing: 100,000 Children a Year', Readers Digest, vol. 121, July, pp. 60-64.
  • US Attorney-General's Advisory Board on Missing Children (1986), America's Missing and Exploited Children: Their Safety and Their Future, US Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Washington, DC.
  • Vincent, Christine (1984), Teenage Runaways: What Can a Parent Do?, YMCA Outreach, Frankston, Melbourne.
  • Williams, R. (1969), Missing! A Study of the World-Wide Missing Persons Enigma and Salvation Army Response, Hodder and Stoughton, London.
  • Wilson, P. R. (1985), Murder of the Innocents: Child Killers and Their Victims, Rigby, Adelaide.
  • Wilson, P. R., Josie Arnold (1986), Street Kids: Austratia's Alienated Young, Collins Dove, Blackburn.

The Australian publications will be more readily available in bookshops and public libraries than those published overseas.

Directory of services

Introduction

This Directory gives brief descriptions of agencies, organisations and services that provide help to missing persons, their families and friends.

It is also a preventive Directory including descriptions of family and adolescent counselling centres, health centres and telephone advice and counselling services.

The Directory lists key services in alphabetical order in each State and Territory. Although reasonable care has been taken it is not claimed the Directory is exhaustive by any means.

Some of the services listed may have changed telephone numbers since this publication. If there is a problem contacting any of the Directory's services the phone number(s) can be checked with Telecom's Directory Assistance on 013 for local directory numbers and 0175 for elsewhere in Australia.

General information and advice

Police

In all States and Territories missing persons should be reported to a local police station (preferably near where the person disappearedor near his/her home address).

At local police stations details of the missing person are taken down and prepared in a report for the Missing Persons Bureau/Unit in each State and Territory.

If the missing person is believed to be in another State, that State's police force are advised by police in the home State.

See the White Pages under State Government for your local police station, eg. Sydney Police stations are found at the front of the A-K Section White Pages of the telephone directory in the NSW Government Section under 'Police Stations'.

Hospitals

Missing persons are sometimes located in hospitals for a variety of reasons including: personal injury, physical/sexual assault, distress, depression or psychological trauma.

See 'Hospitals' in the Yellow Pages of the telephone directory.

Lifeline

Lifeline provides 24-hour crisis telephone counselling, referral and advice. This Directory lists Lifeline numbers in each State and Territory.

See the White Pages under 'Lifeline' for the service in your area.

Australian Red Cross Society

The Australian Red Cross provides access to the Central Tracing Agency of the International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC). Services undertaken include:

  • Obtaining, recording, processing and transmitting all information required for the identification of persons in need of ICRC assistance.
  • Transmitting correspondence between dispersed family members when normal means of communication are disrupted.
  • Tracing persons reported missing or whose relatives are without news of them.
  • Re-uniting families, organising transfers and repatriations.
  • Issuing travel documents to persons without identity papers (refugees, displaced persons, political exiles) wishing to travel to a country willing to receive them or be repatriated and issuing capture, sickness or other certificates to persons who, in order to obtain assistance or pensions, must supply evidence.

This Directory lists the Red Cross headquarters in each State and Territory.

Youth refuges

Youth refuges often provide accommodation to missing and runaway persons. Because of their relationship with young people the youth workers in refuges cannot always reveal the whereabouts of specific individuals but often through their network of street contacts they can get a message to person or have them phone home.

This Directory lists key youth refuges in metropolitan and country centres. More information on refuges may be obtained from major Youth Accommodation services listed in the Directory, the Council of Social Services in each State and Territory or through State departments covering Youth Health, Welfare, Community Services etc.

Schools

Most schools now employ either counsellors or social workers. They are trained to offer advice and support to students and their families on problems and concerns they may be experiencing.

Contact your school office or principal for more information.

Telephone Interpreter Service (TIS)

Telephone Interpreter Service can assist with personal and practical problems, general information and help communicating with doctors, solicitors and others.

TIS numbers are found at the front of the White Pages in the telephone directory.

Migrant resource centres

Most large metropolitan areas have migrant resource centres which assist migrants with information, advice, support and referral to other services.

Migrant Resource Centres are found in the White Pages of the telephone directory.

Council/shire/regional government offices

Many councils etc. employ social workers, psychologists or counsellors to assist children, adolescents, parents and families. Councils are also a good source of referral to other local agencies and services.

See the White Pages under 'Local Government' for your nearest office.

Operation 'Home Free'

The Greyhound Bus Company operates a 'Home Free' program in which it provides free coach travel to runaway juveniles returning home throughout Australia. Police approval is required before tickets are issued and both parents and missing juveniles wishing to utilise the scheme should consult their nearest police station.

New South Wales

  • Albury/Wodonga Youth Refuge (060) 21 7046
    Counselling, crisis accommodation for 12-18 year olds
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Australian Red Cross (02) 290 2622
    New South Wales Headquarters
    159 Clarence Street, Sydney 2000
  • Community Welfare Centre (YACS Wagga Wagga) (069) 21 7225
    Young offender support workers help with counselling, court work and probation
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm. Monday to Friday.
  • Crisis Line (02) 439 8999
    A telephone referral and general counselling service
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Family and Community Services
    See the White Pages A-K telephone directory under NSW Government Section 'Youth and Community Services' for your nearest office YACS is the NSW Government Department providing information, advice and referral to other departments and agencies; YACS also has specific responsibility for Wards of the State, probationers, parolees and department hostels Child Protection Line (02) 818 5555 The Child Protection Line is concerned with phone counselling in matters concerning child safety and welfare
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • I'm OK Line (008) 42 4730
    A recorded message can be left on this toll-free number to be passed on to parents, friends or guardians Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Lifeline
    Sydney (02) 264 2222
    Bathurst (063) 31 7731
    Broken Hill (080) 88 5888
    Burwood (02) 744 1016
    Camden (046) 66 75I I
    Campbelltown (046) 66 7511
    Coffs Harbour (066) 51 1822
    Gosford (043) 24 111
    Grafton (066) 42 6377
    Hawkesbury (045) 71 1622
    Hornsby (02) 477 4440
    Illawarra (042) 28 1211
    Lismore (066) 21 8488
    Lower Blue Mts (047) 51 3700
    Manly (02) 949 6099
    Newcastle (049) 61 5353
    Nowra (044) 21 5333
    Parramatta (02) 635 9000
    Sthn Highlands (048) 68 3211
    Tamworth (067) 65 7000
    Wollongong (042) 28 1211
  • Lismore Youth Refuge (066) 21 7535
    103 Wyrallah Road, Lismore 2480
    Emotional support, referral and short term accommodation
    Operates after 4.00 pm, 7 days per week.
  • Marrickville Legal Centre (02) 559 2899
  • Macquarie Legal Centre (02) 089 1777
    Solicitors and youth workers available for legal advice and dealing with criminal and social security court appearances
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Mental Health Information Service (02) 816 5688
    Counselling and information on Mental Health issues, referrals to hostels, hospitals and homes
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • NSW Police - Community Relations (02) 339 0277
    For advice on Protective Behaviour contact the police representative, Community Relations, Police Headquarters.
  • NSW Police - Juvenile Services Bureau
    Sydney numbers all (02)
    Miranda 525 8211
    Flemington 764 0055
    Parramatta 689 7790
    Chatswood 411 0914
    Juvenile Services Bureaus investigate child assault and abuse cases including: neglect, maltreatment, physical and sexual assault. Trained police officers are also available to offer advice and referral to other government agencies
    In areas outside Sydney contact your local police station and ask them for your nearest Juvenile Services Bureau.
  • Newcastle Youth Service (049) 69 2466
    150 Beaumont Street, Hamilton 2303
    Counselling, support, referral and advice; help with long term accommodation
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • No. 31 Presbyterian Youth Crisis Centre (02) 358 6057
    31 Roslyn Street, Kings Cross 2011
    Accommodation and counselling for youth in crisis
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Salvation Army Missing Person (02) 264 1711
    25 Cooper Street, Surry Hills 2010 Provides help in locating missing adults only (18 years and over) through its independent bureau
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday
  • Salvos Care Line (02) 331 6000 or 331 2000
    This telephone counselling and referral service regularly deals with young people and their problems
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days a week.
  • Sydney City Mission Youth Crisis Centre (02) 332 2000
    'The Opposition', 191 Dartinghurst Road, Kings Cross 2011
    Counselling and short term accommodation service The Drop-in Centre at the rear of the crisis centre provides meals and counselling for young people
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Sydney Rape Crisis Centre (02) 819 6565(reverse charges)
    PO Box 188, Drummoyne 2047 Provides support, counselling, advice as well as medical, legal and accommodation referral for rape and sexual assault cases
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • The Compassionate Friends (TCF) (02) 267 6962
    Fayworth House, 3rd Floor, 381 Pitt Street, Sydney
    An international Organisation of bereaved parents offering friendship and understanding to other bereaved parents TCF has a counselling network throughout Sydney and NSW
    Operates 10.30 am 3.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • 2UE Kids Care Line (02) 929 7799
    A telephone counselling service which offers counselling on family issues and concerns from trained psychologists and social workers. Advice and referral is also available.
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Wagga Wagga Youth Refuge (069) 21 4436
    Counselling, referral and short term crisis accommodation Operates 4.00 pm-10.00 am, 7 days per week.
  • Wayside Chapel Crisis Centre (02) 358 6577 or (008) 22 1901
    29 Hughes Street, Potts Point 2001
    The Wayside Chapel has its own missing persons centre
    Telephone counselling and referral, drug and alcohol advice and family reconciliations are some of the services offered by the centre
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Welfare Rights Centre (02) 267 5077
    4th Floor, 245 Castlereagh Street, Sydney
    Assists with social security claims and advice
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Wollongong Youth Refuge (042) 28 1946
    467 Crown Street, Wollongong 2500
    Emotional support, advocacy, referral and accommodation for young people
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Youth Accommodation Association (YAA) N,5W (02) 68.9 2874 or (008) 42 4830
    PO Box 810A, Harris Park 2150 The YAA provides accommodation for people in need on its Emergency Youth Accommodation Line
    YAA membership includes most refuges and services offering medium term accommodation in New South Wales
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Youthline
    5ydney (02) 264 1177, Parramatta (02) 633 3666
    Youthline offers advice, counselling and referral specifically for young people
    Operates 12.00 noon-12.00 midnight, 7 days per week.

Victoria

  • Australian Red Cross (03) 616 9911
    Victoria Headquarters
    171 City Road, South Melbourne 3205
  • Bayside Youth Hostel (Frankston) (03) 781 2984
    Provides emergency accommodation for 15-17 year olds and referral to drug, alcohol and employment counsellers. Medical and legal aid referrals are also available
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Buoyancy Foundation (03) 429 3322
    46 Rowena Road, Richmond 3121
    A drop in centre providing crisis telephone counselling on drug related problems Assessment counselling and legal advice available for drug dependents and their families Drop-in centre operates 10.00 am-6-00 pm, Monday to Friday
    Telephone counselling operates 24hours, 7 days per week.
  • Children's Court Advisory Service (03) 654 6033
    108 Batman Avenue, Melbourne
    Offers free confidential advice on matters related to child and family problems, children's court procedures and community services in Victoria Staffed by social workers
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Community Health Centres
    Provides counselling on personal and family problems, health programs, information on local services community education
    See the White Pages A-K telephone directory under Victorian Government Section 'Community Health Centres' for your local centre
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Community Services Victoria (CSV)
    This State Government Department employs child protection social workers who investigate complaints of neglected or abused children and teenagers
    The CSV has specific responsibility for Wards of State, probationers, parolees and department hostels Phone information, advice and referral are available
    See White Pages A-K telephone directory under Victorian Government Section 'Community Services Victoria - Protective Services' for your local office
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Direct Line (Drug and alcohol) (03)614 1999 or (008) 13 6385
    Telephone counselling service offering support, information and referral on alcohol and drug related problems
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Ecumenical Migration Centre (03) 428 4948
    133 Church Street, Richmond 3121 Provides information, counselling and referral
    Experienced in assisting Greek, Turkish and Vietnamese families
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Federation of Community Legal Centres (03) 419 2752
    272 George Street, Fitzroy 3065
    The Federation is the umbrella body for 28 general and specialist legal centres throughout Victoria Covering areas such as Aborigines, tenants, women, medical, family and occupational laws
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Lifeline (see also Multi-lingual Lifeline)
    Melbourne (03) 662 1000
    Albury-Wodonga (060) 21 1311
    Ballarat (053) 31 2255
    Geelong (052) 22 2233
    Horsham (008) 15 3011
    Morwell (051) 34 4311
    Warrnambool (005) 62 3254
    Provides information, counselling and referral to those in crisis. Psychologists are available for face-to-face counselling
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Message Home (03) 650 9129
    A message can be left at this number to be passed on to family or guardians
    The service operates to any part of Australia It is free, confidential and no questions are asked
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Multi-lingual Lifeline (see also Lifeline)
    Arabic (03) 662 2141
    Greek (03) 022 2448
    Italian (03) 622 2595
    Turkish (03) 662 2929
    Vietnamese (03) 662 2727
    Operates 5.00 pm-12 midnight, Monday to Friday.
  • Parents Anonymous (03) 654 4654
    Individual and family counselling for parents and teenagers experiencing problems; experienced in dealing with parental stress
    Face-to-face counselling operates 10.00 am 4.00 pm, Monday to Friday Crisis phone counselling operates 7.00 am-12 midnight, 7 days per week.
  • Parents of Missing Children Inc (03) 762 1592
    A crisis telephone service to assist and support parents of children who are missing or who have run away
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Personal Emergency Service (03) 347 6466
    Provides general counselling and referral
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Royal Children's Hospital Adolescent Unit (03) 345 5893 or 345 5890
    Flemington Road, Parkville 3052
    Provides counselling for young people 13 to 18 years old, with any kind of problem. No doctor's referral is needed. An appointment must be made.
    Operates 9.00 am 5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Salvation Army (O3) 698 7222
    69 Bourke Street, Melbourne 3000
    The Salvation Army operates a Missing Persons Bureau which carries out private investigations (adults only)
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • St Kilda Youth Refuge (03) 534 4612 or 534 5706
    31 Grey Street, St Kilda 3182
    Counselling, referral, advice and accommodation for 15-24 year olds
    Crisis centre operates: 10.00 am-12 midnight, Sunday to Thursday 10.00 am-2.00 am, Friday and Saturday Accommodation centre operates 24hours, 7 days a week.
  • Stopover Emergency Youth Accommodation Service (03) 347 0822
    PO Box 384, Carlton South 3053
    Providing emergency accommodation, information and referral for 13 to 18 year olds
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • The Compassionate Friends (TCF) (03) 232 8222
    TCF is an Organisation offering comfort, compassion and strength to bereaved parents. They have a network of contacts throughout Victoria.
  • Victims of Crime Assistance League (VOCAL) Inc (03) 690 1877
    71 Eastern Road, South Melbourne 3205
    A voluntary Organisation formed to assist victims of crime Offers information on services, compensation for victims of crime and practical advice and information
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Victoria Police - Community Policing Squads (03) 320 3635
    A squad of police men and women trained to handle children's and family problems; also to investigate complaints of neglected, maltreated or abused children and teenagers Informal advice and referral to other social service agencies available In Metropolitan Melbourne see White Pages A-K telephone directory under Victorian Government Section 'Police' for your local telephone number In country areas contact the local police station and ask for the nearest Community Policing Squad.
  • Victorian Association of Citizens Aduice Bureaus (03) 419.9866
    10th Floor, 176 Wellington Parade, East Melbourne 3002
    Provides information, referral and some legal advice Citizens Advice Bureaus operate a network of bureaus throughout Victoria See the White Pages of telephone directory for your nearest bureau Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Welfare Rights Unit (03) 416 1111
    1st Floor, 193 Smith Street, Fitzroy 3065
    Assists with social security and other welfare claims and advice
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Wellington Youth Counselling Centre (03) 529 8020
    4th Floor, 594 St Kilda Road, Melbourne 3004
    Provides individual, group and family counselling for teenagers and adults; appointments necessary
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday (evenings by appointment).
  • Western Port Youth Refuge (03) 791 5692
    Provides emergency accommodation, advice counselling and referral for 15-20 year olds
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Women's Refuge Referral Service (03) 329 8433
    Offers advice and emergency accommodation referral for females escaping domestic violence, incest and other abuse situations
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.

Queensland

  • Anglican Cairns Youth Service (070) 53 6410
    PO Box 2179, Cairns 4870
    Provides support, counselling, accommodation, referral and assistance with independent living for homeless youth Major part of this service is to reconcile young people with their families where appropriate
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Australian Red Cross (07) 31 2551
    Queensland Headquarters
    409 Adelaide Street, Brisbane 4000
  • Bayside Adolescent Boarding Inc (07) 393 4176 or 393 4170
    105 Edith Street, Wynnum 4178
    Provides accommodation, support and referral for young people
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday
  • Bracken Ridge Family and Youth Support Group (07) 269 0691
    Norris Road, Bald Hills 4036
    Provides a message home service, counselling and referral for youth, parents and families
    Operates 9.00 am-4.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Brisbane Citizens Advice Bureau (07) 221 4343
    69 Anne Street, Brisbane 4000
    Provides information, advice and referral on a range of services including medical, legal and financial
    Operates 10.00 am-4.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Brisbane City Mission (07) 252 3571
    702 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley 4006
    Provides counselling, drug and alcohol advice, crisis accommodation and referral Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Brisbane Youth Service (07) 852 1335
    111 Wickham Street, Fortitude Valley 4006
    Provides youth counselling, information, reconciliations, referrals for accommodation and legal advice A message home service is also available
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Bundaberg Area Youth Service (071) 71 6017
    70 Woongarra Street, Bundaberg 4670
    Provides short term emergency accommodation Youth workers provide counselling, guidance, encouragement advice and referral for 14-24 year olds
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Crisis Counselling (07) 224 6855
    Emergency counselling for people in crisis
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Department of Family Services (07) 227 7111
    The Department is responsible for children, juveniles and families Provides advice, information and referral to other departments, services and organisations
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Gold Coast Youth Service (075) 91 1933 or 91 3309
    102 Queen Street, Southport 4215
    A major referral and advice centre providing: counselling, independent living skills program, personal development courses, street programs, referral for accommodation
    Operates 10.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday
    A telephone answering service is in operation after hours.
  • Hebron House (07) 38 9776
    15 Frasers Road, Ashgrove 4060 Accommodation and counselling available
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Lifeline
    Brisbane (07) 25 2111
    Aitkenvale (077) 79 0022
    Bundaberg (071) 72 6788
    Cairns (070) 51 4300
    Gold Coast (075) 39 9999
    Ipswich (07) 281 95555
    Lower Burdekin ext (077) 83 3000
    Mackay (079) 51 2333
    Maroochydore (071) 43 5099
    Maryborough (071) 21 2626
    Rockhampton (079) 27 3399
    Rockhampton area excl. Mackay (008) 015 220
    Toowoomba (076) 32 9900
    Warwick/Dalby area (008) 01 6017
  • Maroochydore Area Youth Service (071) 43 4543
    PO Box 271, Maroochydore 4558
    A crisis centre offering counselling, material assistance referral and emergency accommodation for youth
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week
  • Message Home Brisbane (07) 839 5334 Cairns (079) 57 3800
    A message can be left at this number to be passed on to family or guardians
    The Service operates to any part of Australia
    It is free, confidential and no questions are asked
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Sexual Abuse Treatment Program (07) 227 5915
    Provides individual counselling for families and group counselling for children, mothers and perpetrators Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday
  • The Compassionate Friends (TCF) (07) 359 1897, (07) 848 7086, (07) 376 6463
    An international Organisation of bereaved parents, offering friendship and understanding to other bereaved parents TCF has a network of contacts throughout Queensland.
  • Woodridge Family Services (07) 208 8100 or 208 8255
    Provides individual and family counselling including family reconciliations
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Youth Advocacy (07) 857 1155
    217 Lutwyche Road, Windsor, 4030 Provides legal advice, accommodation and advocacy for young people 16 years and under Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday
    Legal advice operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Youth Emergency Services (07) 357 7655
    25 Thorne Street, Windsor 4030
    Provides emergency accommodation, assessment, counselling reconciliations and referrals
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.

Western Australia

  • Anglicare (09) 321 7033, 321 4217 or 321 6564
    42 Collins Street, West Perth 6005
    Perth's major non-government health and welfare service Offers youth counselling, emergency accommodation, advice on family problems and referrals
    Operates 8.30 am-5.30 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Australian Red Cross (09) 321 0321
    Western Australia Headquarters
    357-363 Murray Street, Perth 6000
  • Centre Care Marriage and Family Service (09) 335 6644
    25 Victoria Square, Perth 6000 Provides personal, marriage, adolescent and family counselling advice and referral Staff comprises: psychologists, social workers and welfare workers
    Operates 9.00 am-5. 00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Citizens Advice Bureau of Western Australia (09) 344 2200
    City Arcade Officer Tower, 207 Murray Street, Perth 6000
    Offers advice and referral on a host of concerns/problems
    Provides a full time legal service
    Operates 9.00 am-4.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Concerned Christians Growth Ministries (09) 344 2200
    176 Albert Street, Osborne Park 6017
    Provides counselling, advice and information to persons who are concerned about religious cults and sects
    Researches and monitors religious groups and provides public education through the media and a research library
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday
    Emergency after hours telephone number (09) 349 9438.
  • Crisis Care Unit (09) 321 4144 or (008) 19 9008
    PO Box 8146, Stirling Street, Perth 6000
    A major Perth-based service run through the Department for Community Services
    Provides 24-hour crisis intervention on a range of problems including child protection and domestic violence Crisis care is a mobile service offering intervention and counselling for families and individuals experiencing stress Toll free number offers support counselling and referral for areas outside Perth
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Fremantle Youth Service (09) 325 3210 or 325 4184
    7 Quarry Street, Fremantle 6160
    A collective of youth services including employment, health, Counselling and a drop-in centre
    Operates 8.30 am 5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Jesus People Inc (JPI) (09) 325 4677
    277 Hay Street, East Perth (PO Box 6282) 6000
    Provides a range of youth and community services in Western Australia including: counselling, drug and alcohol advice, accommodation, employment training and women's services.
  • Message Home (09) 321 2330
    A recorded message can be left at this number to be passed on to friends, guardians or family The service is free and confidential Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Princess Margaret Hospital for Children - Child Sexual Abuse Service (09) 382 8222
    Roberts Road, Subiaco 6008 Provides a service to the children and families of Western Australia in the total area of child protection The hospital funds a child sexual abuse unit which is staffed by specialists in the medical and social work areas
    After-hours calls are managed by a social worker who is on-call and an appropriately trained medical officer
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Samaritans
    Perth (09) 391 5555
    Albany (098) 41 4777
    Bunbury (097) 21 1000
    Geraidton (099) 21 4411
    Kalgoorlie (090) 21 4111
    Port Headland (091) 721 1999
    Provides 24-hour crisis telephone counselling, referral and advice throughout Western Australia
  • Samaritan Youthline (09) 381 2500
    Telephone counselling for despairing and suicidal youth
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Support Group for Parents of Teenagers (09) 322 6669
    C/- YWCA, Suite 2, 17 Ord Street, West Perth 6005
    Provides preventative counselling with teenagers experiencing problems at home Support, referral and advice are other aspects of the service A migrant worker is available
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pro, Monday to Friday.
  • The Compassionate Friend (TCF) (09) 370 3037
    An international Organisation of bereaved parents offering friendship and understanding to other bereaved parents
    TCF has a counselling network in Perth and throughout Western Australia
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Western Australia Police (09) 222 1111
    Missing Persons Unit, Police Headquarters, 2 Adelaide Terrace, Perth 6000
  • Western Institute of Self Help (WISH) (09) 383 3188
    Provides information and advice on the hundreds of self-help groups in Western Australia Covers groups dealing with a variety of concerns including: Aborigines, abuse, addiction, children and parents, migrants, grief, health, communities, women and youth
    Operates 9.00 am 5.00 pro, Monday to Friday.
  • YMCA 'Street Syde' (09) 325 2744
    119 Murray Street, Central Perth 6000
    Provides emergency and short term accommodation for 15 to 25 year olds Referral and counselling service available
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Youth Health Service (09) 322 1489
    118 Hay Street, West Perth 6005
    Offers education, information, counselling, medical treatment and practical advice on all health issues/problems The service employs a social worker, doctor and nurses and has a strong emphasis on preventative medicine
    Operates 8.30 am-5.00 pro, Monday to Friday.
  • Youth Legal Service (09) 481 0560
    Ist Floor, 42 Collins Street, West Perth 6005
    Provides legal advice and referral for young people
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.

South Australia

  • Adelaide Housing and Outreach Centre (ADHOC) (08) 231 6111
    104A Currie Street, Adelaide 5000 Assists young people with advocacy, referral and counselling in the accommodation area
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pro, Monday to Friday.
  • Australia Red Cross (08) 267 4277
    South Australia Headquarters, 211 Childers Street, North Adelaide 5006
  • Child and Adolescent Family Health Service (08) 223 2477 (Adolescent Resource Unit)
    295 South Terrace, Adelaide 5000
    Preventative health service and family counselling for adolescents/ family conflict
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Citizens Advice Bureau (08) 212 4070
    A major advice and referral service with a network of centres throughout South Australia Legal advice is available between 1.00 pm-2.00 pm, Monday to Friday Provides welfare rights, advice and assistance
  • Crisis Care (Department of Community Welfare) (08) 272 1222
    A crisis counselling and referral telephone service
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Joyce Schultz Women's Shelter (08) 224 0198
    248 South Terrace, Adelaide 5000
    This Red Cross run service provides accommodation, counselling and referral for young women
    Operates 4.00 pm-10.00 am, 7 days per week.
  • Lifeline
    Adelaide (08) 212 3444
    Mount Gambier (087) 25 9111
    Port Augusta (086) 42 2132
    Port Lincoln (086) 82 5657
    Port Pirie (086) 32 3300
    Whyalla (086) 45 5400
  • Queen Elizabeth Hospital -Sexual Referral Centre (08) 45 0222
    Woodville Road, Woodville 5011
    Emergency medical and counselling for rape and sexual assault victims
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week
  • Saint John's Refuge (08) 223 7558
    29 Moore Street, Adelaide 5000
    Providing emergency accommodation, counselling and referral for 12-21 year olds
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Salvation Army Youth Accommodation Service (08) 262 4242
    Burlendi (08) 281 0163,
    22 Spains Road, Salisbury
    Provides emergency accommodation, counselling and referral for 14-17 year olds.
    Wandendi (08) 262 4242,
    797 Main North Road, Parooka
    Provides emergency accommodation, counselling and referral for 18-25 year olds.
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Service to Youth Council (SYC) (08) 211 8466
    88 Currie Street, Adelaide 5000
    SYC provides accommodation, advice counselling and referral for young people
    Street youth workers have daily contact in areas where runaways and homeless youth congregate
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pro, Monday to Friday.
  • The Compassionate Friends (TCF) (08) 43 9205
    An international Organisation of bereaved parents Offers friendship and understanding to other parents Contacts throughout South Australia.
  • The Second Storey (08) 232 0233
    112 Rundle Mall (entrance off Charles Street), Adelaide 5000
    Adolescent counselling and support service dealing with young people in crisis
    Telephone counselling operates:
    9.00 am-8.00 pro, Monday to Thursday
    9.00 am-9.00 pro, Friday
    Youth workers available for counselling: 12 noon-8.00 pro, Monday to Wednesday
    2.00 pm-8.00 pro, Thursday
    4.00 pm-9.00 pm, Friday
  • Trace-A-Place
    88 Currie Street, Adelaide 5000
    Provides needs assessment and referral for crisis accommodation
    Operates 10.00 am-4.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • West Care (08) 231 2850
    212 Wright Street, Adelaide 5000
    Provides counselling, referral and emergency youth accommodation for 15-21 year olds
    Operates 8.00 am-4.00 pm, 7 days per week.
  • Victims of Crime Service Inc (VOCS) (08) 223 6038
    Offers support, counselling, referral, legal advice and companions for court attendance
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday
    A telephone answering machine is in operation after hours.

Tasmania

  • Australian Red Cross (002) 34 3477
    Tasmania Headquarters
    53 Collins Street, Hobart 7000
  • Child Protection Board (002) 30 2921
    Knapwood House, 38 Montpelian Retreat, Battery Point, Hobart 7000
    Provides risk assessment, counselling, referral and crisis intervention in cases of child maltreatment and sexual abuse Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Citizens Advice Bureau (002) 44 0600
    Eastern Shopping Complex (Eastlands), Bligh Street, Rosny Park 7018
    Offers information and referral on a range of services both government and private including: legal and welfare advice, where to seek counselling and accommodation, financial assistance, support and advice
    Operates 10.00 am-4.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Department of Community Welfare (002) 30 8011
    12 Murray Street, Hobart 7000
    The Department of Community Welfare provides referral and advice on other agencies and government departments Local offices employ social workers and psychologists for child, adolescent and family counselling
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday
    Child welfare officers are available 24 hours on telephone, (002) 30 3736.
  • Hobart Community Legal Service (002) 34 5988
    29 Strahan Street, North Hobart 7000
    Provides free legal advice and referral Service is involved in law reform and community education Free legal advice sessions are held Monday and Thursday evenings between 6.00 and 7.30 pm
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Karinya Young Women's Shelter Launceston (003) 44 9520
    Emergency Accommodation, advice and information for young women 16-25 year old
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Lifeline
    Hobart (002) 28 0224
    Burnie (004) 31 7766
    Life Link Launceston (003) 31 3355
  • North West Youth Shelter (004) 24 7375
    176 William Street, Davenport 7310
    Offers accommodation, support, advice and referral for young homeless people
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Northern Youth Shelter Association (033) 31 6622
    PO Box 1210, Launceston 7250
    Provides crisis accommodation, counselling and advice for 14-21 year old males
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Sexual Assault Support Service (002) 31 1811
    PO Box 217, North Hobart 7002
    Provides support, counselling, legal and medical referral in cases of sexual assault
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • The Compassionate Friends (TCF) (002) 55 2145
    An international Organisation of bereaved parents, offering friendship and understanding to other bereaved parents.
  • Youth Care (002) 34 6316
    199 Campbell Street, Hobart 7000
    Provides referral, counselling and accommodation for young people in the Hobart area
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Youth Link Inc (004) 73 1744
    A crisis accommodation referral service for 12-25 year olds on the west coast
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.

Northern Territory

  • Aboriginal Legal Aid
    Darwin (089) 81 5266
    Alice Springs (089) 52 2933
    Katherine (089) 72 1133
    1 Gardiner Street, Darwin
    Assists with legal representation and advice Services include: assistance in obtaining lawful release while awaiting trial, collection of data for defence, public education in legal rights issues, assistance in enforcement of justice for all
    Operation 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday
    A message can be left on the telephone answering service after hours.
  • Casey House Youth Refuge (089) 85 3538
    C/- YWCA, PO Box 2586, Darwin 5794
    Provides emergency accommodation for 14-18 year olds, referral, individual and family counselling
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Crisis Line Darwin (089) 81 2040
    Crisis telephone counselling, advice and referral
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Department of Health and Community Services
    PO Box 40596, Casuarina NT 5792
    Darwin (089) 20 3211
    Alice Springs (089) 50 2501
    Katherine (089) 72 2555
    Tennant Creek (089) 62 2442
    The Department has responsibility for health services in the Territory, including: Child health clinics, health centres and hospitals, migrant and women's health Provides information, advice and referral for personal or family counselling
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Northern Territory Police
    Police Headquarters, Berrimah Police Centre, McMillans Road, Berrimah Darwin 5790 (089) 22 3344
    Police Station, Parsons Street, Alice Springs (089) 50 1211
  • Oakley House (089) 270251
    C/- YWCA GPO Box 2686, Darwin 5794
    A refuge offering support and accommodation to teenage mothers and pregnant girls
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday
    After hours contact Casey House (089) 85 3538.
  • Salvation Army (089) 81 8188
    49 Mitchell Street, Darwin 5790
    Provides a missing persons (adults only) inquiry service, welfare office, referral for counselling and accommodation Other services in the Territory include:
    Katherine Booth House, Darwin (089) 81 9528 - a lone women's crisis centre
    Alcoholic Rehabilitation Centre, Darwin (089) 81 2500 - provides advice, information and rehabilitation
    Katherine Women's Crisis Centre (089) 73 1332
    Alice Springs Welfare Officer (089) 52 9815
    Alice Springs Hostel (089) 52 2777
  • Sexual Assault Referral Centre Royal Darwin Hospital (089) 208407 (bh) or (089) 20 7211 (ah)
    Provides counselling and support for victims, their families and friends Follow-up medical services Information and referral to legal, medical and financial services
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.

Australian Capital Territory

  • ACT Health Authority (062) 45 4111
    ACTHA Building, Cnr Moore and Alinga Streets, Canberra City
    ACTHA coordinates and runs health services in the ACT including public hospitals, AIDS referral service, child and family guidance clinics, child health clinics, community health centres, health service hostels, mental health services, migrant health services and women's health services ACTHA employs psychologists and social workers to deal with individual health and family problems
    Operates 9.00 am-5. 00 pm, Monday to Friday
    See front of the White Pages of ACT telephone directory, Commonwealth Government Section 'ACT Health Authority' for services.
  • Ainslie Village (062) 48 6931
    Quick Street, Ainslie 2601
    Offers long term low cost accommodation and self help to persons 18 years and over Welfare workers and counselling also available
    Operates 9.00 am- 12.30 pm and 2.00 pm-5.00 pm Monday to Friday Person(s) on duty at village 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Australian Federal Police
    City Police Station (062) 49 7444
    Woden Police Station (062) 45 7377 or 45 7378
    Belconnen Police Station (062) 514444
    Tuggeranong Police Station (062) 31 4444
  • Australian Red Cross (062) 47 8675
    ACT Headquarters
    Hobart Place, Canberra City 2601
  • Belconnen Youth Centre (062) 51 4007
    Chandler Street, Belconnen 2617
    An advice, activities and referral service for young people
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Canberra Youth Refuge (062) 47 0330
    82 Vonython Street, Downer 2602
    Provides crisis intervention counselling and referral
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Citizens Advice Bureau (062) 48 7988
    Griffin Centre, Bunda Street, Canberra 2601
    Offers information and advice on a range of services
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Civic Youth Centre
    14 Cooyong Street, Canberra City 2601
    Offers a range of services, all telephone numbers (062):
    Shortcuts 57 1515 - information, referral and advocacy service; assisting youth with problems including health and finance
    The Foundry 47 2707 - a drop-in centre for youth providing employment programs for the young unemployed under the Commonwealth Youth Support Scheme (CYSS)
    Youth Accommodation Group (YAG) 47 2428 - the umbrella body concerned with youth housing in the ACT
    Youth Health Worker 47 4121 provides information and access to health services
    Youth Worker 47 0770 - provides advice and advocacy for youth
    All above services usually operate 9.00am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • LASA Youth Centre (Lions and Salvation Army) (062) 88 6248
    36 Damala Street, Waramanga 2611
    Provides time out accommodation, crisis accommodation and referral for medium to long term accommodation
    Operates 24-hours, 7 days per week.
  • Lifeline (062) 57 1111
    24-hour crisis counselling service, 7 days per week.
  • Tuggeranong Community Service (062) 31 4404
    Apple-tree House, Erindale College Centre, Sternberg Crescent, Wanniassa 2903
    A family and youth counselling service
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Welfare Rights and Legal Service (062) 47 2626
    Room 7, Griffin Centre, Bunda Street, Canberra 2601
    Free community legal centre specialising in public and private housing, advice on pensions and benefits, legal counselling and referral For emergency legal advice after hours a message can be left on the telephone answering machine
    Operates 9.00 am-5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Woden Community Service (062) 82 2644
    Corinna Street, Phillip 2606
    Family and youth counselling, referral and advice
    Operates 9.00 am 5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Youthline (062) 57 2333
    Advice, counselling and referral specifically for young people Operates 4.00 pm-12 midnight, 7 days per week.

International directory

Introduction

This is a brief listing of major missing persons organisations/ agencies in Canada, Great Britain, New Zealand and the United States. Some of these organizations have offices or contracts in other countries. For further information regarding organisations/ agencies in a particular country contact your nearest High Commission, Embassy or Consulate.

For those people with the IDD dialling facility connected to their telephone the following information is supplied. Where phone numbers are listed the first set of bracketed digits is the country code for ISD dialling, the second set of bracketed digits is the area code. For dialling IDD within Australia it is necessary to dial 0011 before the country code.

Australia

  • International Social Services
    Provides support, negotiation and practical action in cases of non-custodial (parental) abduction overseas
    National Headquarters (03) 428 4538
    280 Church Street
    Richmond Vic 3121
    Branch Office (02) 235 0395
    5th Floor
    121 Pitt Street
    Sydney NSW 2000

Great Britain

  • Missing Persons Bureau (44) (1) 230 1212
    New Scotland Yard
    Broadway
    London SWIH OBG
  • >National Organisation for the Reunion of Child and Parent
    49 Russell Hill Road Purley
    Surrey CR2 2XB
  • Salvation Army Social Services Investigations Department (44) (1) 985 1181
    110-112 Middlesex Street
    London E1 7HZ

Canada

  • Royal Canadian Mounted Police (1) (613) 993 7425
    Task Force on Missing Children
    1200 Alta Vista Drive
    Ottawa Ontario KIA OR2

New Zealand

  • New Zealand Red Cross Society (64) (4) 72 3750
    National Headquarters
    14 Hill Street
    Wellington North
    The National Headquarters will be able to provide Red Cross contact addresses/phone numbers for other areas of New Zealand.
  • NZ Red Cross Wellington Branch (64) (4) 89 9104
    7 Donald MacLean Street
    Wellington South
  • New Zealand Police Headquarters (64) (4) 74 9499
    180 Molesworth Street
    Wellington

United States of America

  • Child Find (1) (914) 255 1848
    (1-800) 431 5005     (reserved for use by children)
    7 Innes Avenue (PO Box 277)
    New Paltz, New York 12501
  • Child Seekers (1) (802) 865 2250
    PO Box 636, Colchester, Vermont 05446
    (1) (802) 773 5988
    PO Box 6065, Rutland, Vermont 05701-6065
  • Commission on Missing and Exploited Children (1) (901) 528 8441
    Juvenile Court of Memphis and Shelby County
    616 Adams Avenue, Room 104
    Memphis, Tennessee 38105
  • Florida Department of Law Enforcement (1) (904) 488 5224 (1 -800) 342 0821 (within state)
    Missing Children Information Clearinghouse
    PO Box 1489
    Tallahassee, Florida 32302
  • Hide and Seek Foundation (1) (503) 585 7909
    PO Box 17226
    Salem, Oregon 97305
  • Illinois Department of State Police (1) (217) 782 6429 or 782 5227 (1-800) 834 5763 (within state)
    I-Search
    200 Armory Building
    Springfield, Illinois 62706
  • Missing Children Help Center (1) (813) 623 5437 (kids)
    410 Ware Boulevart, Suite 400
    Tampa, Florida 33619
  • National center for missing and exploited Children (1) (202) 634 9821
    (1-800) 8435678 (Nationwide)
    1835 K Street NW, Suite 600
    Washington DC 20006
  • New Jersey Commission on Missing Persons (1) (609) 588 3742
    Quakerbridge Plaze Drive,
    Building 12A
    CNI 19
    Trenton, NJ 08625
  • Search reports Inc (1) (201) 288 4445
    Central Registry of the Missing 396 Route 17 North
    Hasbrouck Mounts, New Jersey
  • The Kevin Collins Foundation for missing children (1) (415) 863 6333
    (800) 435 7538 (within state)
    (800) 272 0012 (Nationwide)
    PO Box 590473
    San Francisco, California 94159
  • Vanished children's alliance (1) (   ) 408 378 (lost)
    300 Orchard City Drive, Suite 151
    Campbell, California 95008