Why doesn’t FTS look for people under 18?
A6. Children under 18 years of age are minors and searching for them would breach numerous regulations. Even if we did start a search, they rarely leave traceable tracks for us to follow until the person is 18 years of age. The same issues prevent us searching on behalf of a person under 18 years of age. However, if you are under 18 and a ward of the state looking for birth family, you could approach the agency who supervises your placement to see if they are able to help you locate them. In NSW, this is the Department of Community Services. There are also Reconnect Programmes where some youth services may help you get in contact with you family if they are able to be located. It is suggested that you contact your nearest Youth Service or Welfare Agency for information on what services they are able to provide.
