25/05/2026
Today, we recognise International Missing Children’s Day (IMCD), which is held every year on May 25th to honour children who have been safely found, remember those who have been victims of crime, and renew our commitment to finding those who are still missing.
IMCD was established in 2001 by the International Centre for Missing & Exploited Children and its global partners to bring nations together in the search for missing children. In Australia, the AFP represents the Global Missing Children’s Network and leads the annual national law enforcement campaign.
Each year in Australia, police receive more than 50,000 missing persons reports, with over half relating to young people aged 13–17. Most children are found safe within 48 hours, however, for those who remain missing, the impact on families and communities is profound and enduring.
This year, our focus is on Interrupted Futures. We reflect on the deep sense of loss felt when a child disappears, and all the little parts of their lives that become paused. Games left unfinished, schoolbags unpacked, chapters unread, drawings incomplete; a future interrupted.
Across the week, we’ll be sharing the profiles of long-term missing children to raise awareness and help bring answers to their families.
Join us by sharing their stories, raising awareness, and remembering that every minute matters when it comes to bringing a child safely home.
