Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate a teenager who went missing from Kotara yesterday afternoon.

Matthew Kiely, aged 19, was last seen walking from his home on Rodway Street at Kotara bout 4.30pm yesterday (Tuesday 9 February 2016).

Officers attached to Newcastle City Local Area Command have been told Matthew left his home and was seen walking toward Kotara South Public School.

Police were notified after his parents searched the area and were unable to locate him.

There are serious concerns for Matthew due to significant medical conditions, including communication difficulties, which require ongoing treatment.

Matthew is described as being of Caucasian appearance with a fair complexion, about 155-160cm tall, with light brown hair, facial hair and of a small build.

He was last seen wearing a light-blue t-shirt, dark shorts and thongs.

The missing person is known to frequent areas in Gateshead and Cessnock.

Anyone with information on his whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.