Michael Hutchinson, 47, has been arrested over the suspicious disappearance of his wife in north Queensland.

Julie Hutchinson was reported missing from a Townsville property on April 9.

Police launched a homicide investigation into her disappearance on Sunday afternoon.

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The 48-year-old mother of two was last seen at a residence in Chelsea Drive on March 7 – almost one month before being reported missing by her sister.

Julie Hutchinson was reported missing on April 9. Photo: ABC

At a press conference, police said Ms Hutchinson’s house was declared a crime scene late on Saturday when information came to hand suggesting they were dealing with a homicide.

Forensic police were spotted combing the property on Sunday afternoon and a family car has been seized.

Police said Ms Hutchinson’s husband was in custody and assisting police with their inquiries.

No charges have been laid.

Ms Hutchinson was a long-term employee of Queensland Nickel, owned by Clive Palmer.

Her husband works in security.

Neighbours described the couple as nice, quiet people who kept to themselves.

They have lived in the area for about a decade.

Police are appealing for anyone who may have seen Ms Hutchinson or the vehicle that she may have been driving, a 2004 silver Mazda 6 sedan with Queensland registration 622 HZE, since early March to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

The vehicle may have at some stage been in a remote area of Townsville, called Hervey’s Range according to police.

Investigations will continue as police try to locate Ms Hutchinson’s body.