Healthcare, education, construction, engineering, and public services, are all sought after
Hundreds of skilled workers in the UK are being asked to move to South Australia(Image: Getty Images)
Hundreds of skilled workers in the UK are being asked to move to South Australia to fill jobs in key sectors. The state is on a major recruitment drive and looking to attract those working in various industries, including healthcare, education, construction, engineering, and public services.
The initiative is part of a Move to South Australia UK Roadshow, where skilled workers and professionals are being invited to discuss career and lifestyle opportunities with representatives from key sectors in a bid to tackle an acute skills shortage.
The events will be held in Birmingham, London, Newport in Wales, Glasgow and Manchester.
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Among those who have already emigrated is former University Birmingham student Clarette Goodhead, a University of Birmingham graduate who doubled her income after moving to South Australia as a teacher from the UK more than five years ago.
She was staggered by the quality of life, particularly the work/life balance.
She said: “I have a better balance in my life, it’s less performance driven and I have more time for myself and a life outside of school. I’m able to switch off and then have my own life outside of work. You don’t live to work, you work to live here, and work doesn’t dominate everything.”
(Image: Handout)
She noticed less pressure placed on students in the schooling system in Australia compared to the UK with a focus on student wellbeing, smaller class sizes and continuous assessment rather than high-stakes exams.
She says her teaching wage in Australia is almost double what she earned in the UK, providing her with more disposable income to enjoy more holidays throughout the year.
“There’s a reason why so many British people come over to Australia and never leave because they see what an incredible life they can have here, and it really is the best decision,” she added.
Joy Clarke, a vet from Manchester, moved to South Australia with her husband and three children and was surprised by the differences in the school system.
She said: “As far as pressure goes, I think there’s a big difference. There doesn’t seem to be the high level of pressure on the children compared to the UK. The pressure from the schools is toned down here.”
She added: “Our lifestyle and the quality of life since the move has definitely changed. The greatest thing about living in South Australia has to be the climate. There is also generally a good, friendly atmosphere for most of the people living in South Australia, it’s been quite easy to settle in.”
Rebecca Barton, who moved from Eastbourne to South Australia, is now leading the delegation to attract others to sunnier climes and says the economic benefits along with the lifestyle has made it extremely attractive to her.
“It’s cheaper in Australia. I used to drive a diesel car in the UK, and I drive a diesel car here too and I spend half the price per litre. If you drive long distances, then you will spend half the amount of money.”
My life has changed so much for the better and I’m so glad I took the risk.”
Delivered by the Department of State Development, the roadshow follows independent research from recruitment and talent solutions firm Robert Walters, which found 43% of UK residents surveyed would consider relocating to South Australia. Key factors included the chance of a better lifestyle (50 per cent), the rising cost of living (43 per cent) in the UK and the state’s strong employment prospects (41 per cent).
The roadshow will showcase what South Australia has to offer as a relocation destination.
Attendees will have the chance to meet directly with employers who are looking to sponsor skilled professionals, government officials, and fellow UK migrants, gaining practical insights into the migration process and life in South Australia.
Louisa Newstead, Director of Population and Migration at the Department of State Development, said: “Every year, hundreds of UK residents make the move to South Australia, drawn by exciting career opportunities, world-class education, and a relaxed, welcoming lifestyle.
“With strong demand across health and care services, construction, education, and technology, combined with lower living costs and a Mediterranean climate, it’s no surprise that many UK migrants quickly feel at home in South Australia.
“This is South Australia’s first state-led skilled workforce and migration delegation to the UK, a landmark initiative that reflects our commitment to building a stronger, more resilient workforce and importantly, inviting skilled professionals from the UK to be part of our vibrant communities.”
Led by the Skilled and Business Migration team at the Department of State Development, the roadshow will visit London (Oct 11), Newport in South Wales (October 12), Birmingham (October 14), Manchester (October 16) and Glasgow (October 18). The event will include exhibitor booths, presentations, panel discussions, and Q&A sessions, offering a comprehensive overview of life and work in South Australia and practical advice on how to make the move.
Visitors will receive information packs, brochures, and merchandise, and will be able to network with fellow UK professionals who have already made the move.
With opportunities across healthcare, education, SA Police, construction, engineering, and more, South Australia offers a diverse and expanding job market, a relaxed lifestyle, and lower everyday costs.
For more information and for anyone wishing to register their interest, visit www.movetosouthaustralia.com