Privacy & Safeguarding
Our commitment to protecting families, communities and the people we support.
Trauma-Informed Support
IMPSS is committed to trauma-informed practice. We recognise that families and communities affected by missing persons may be experiencing significant distress, grief and uncertainty. All our interactions, communications and processes are designed to minimise harm, respect emotional boundaries and provide compassionate, patient support.
Respect for Families
Families are at the centre of everything we do. We respect the rights, wishes and cultural needs of families at all times. We will never pressure families to share information, make decisions or take actions they are not comfortable with.
Consent Before Public Sharing
IMPSS will never publicly share information about a missing person, a family's situation or any personal details without explicit, informed consent from the family or authorised person. This includes social media posts, media statements and any public communications.
No Public Posting Without Consent
We do not post missing persons information, photographs or personal details on any public platform without the express written consent of the family or authorised next of kin. This policy protects family privacy, cultural sensitivities and the integrity of any police investigation.
Sensitive Information Handling
Personal information collected by IMPSS — including names, contact details, case information and support records — is stored securely and accessed only by authorised IMPSS personnel on a need-to-know basis. We comply with the Australian Privacy Principles and relevant state and territory privacy legislation.
Child Safety & Vulnerable Person Safeguarding
IMPSS is committed to the safety and wellbeing of children, young people and vulnerable persons. All volunteers and staff undergo appropriate screening including Working with Children Checks and/or Police Checks where required. We have zero tolerance for any form of abuse, exploitation or harm.
Volunteer Conduct
All IMPSS volunteers are required to adhere to a code of conduct that includes respect for privacy, cultural sensitivity, professional behaviour and compliance with all IMPSS policies and procedures. Breaches of the code of conduct may result in removal from volunteer activities.
Referral to Police & Emergency Services
Where IMPSS becomes aware of an immediate safety concern, a crime or a situation requiring emergency response, we will refer the matter to police or emergency services. IMPSS is not an emergency service and does not investigate criminal matters.
Privacy Policy — Pending Legal Review
This privacy and safeguarding statement outlines the principles and commitments of IMPSS. A full privacy policy is being prepared for legal review and will be published here when finalised. In the meantime, if you have any privacy concerns or questions, please contact us at info@impss.org.au.