The state has launched an extensive recruitment campaign targeting professionals in healthcare, education, construction, engineering, and public services
Caroline Hemmingham and Christian Abbott
16:49, 27 Sep 2025
Clarette Goodhead, former University of Birmingham student who now lives in South Australia.(Image: Handout)
An extensive recruitment drive has been initiated by South Australia, beckoning hundreds of skilled workers from the UK to fill critical job vacancies in key sectors.
The campaign is focusing on professionals within healthcare, education, construction, engineering, and public services, aiming to mitigate a significant skills shortage.
As part of the Move to South Australia UK Roadshow, qualified individuals are being offered the chance to meet with sector experts to discuss career opportunities and lifestyle benefits in the region.
Interested parties can attend sessions scheduled in Birmingham, London, Newport in Wales, Glasgow, and Manchester.
Clarette Goodhead, an alumnus of the University of Birmingham who transitioned to a teaching role in South Australia over five years ago, has seen her salary increase twofold since making the move, as reported by Birmingham Live, reports Yorkshire Live.
She has been particularly impressed with the improved work-life balance.
She expressed: “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.”
She noted a less stressful environment for students in Australia’s education system, highlighting better student welfare, smaller class sizes and continuous assessment over high-stakes exams. She also mentioned that her teaching salary in Australia is nearly double what she earned in the UK, affording her more disposable income for extra 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 remarked.
Joy Clarke, a vet from Manchester who moved to South Australia with her family, was struck by the differences in the educational approach.
She commented: “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 further stated: “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 charge to encourage others to make the move to sunnier climes. She asserts that the financial benefits coupled with the lifestyle have made it incredibly 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.”
The roadshow, organised by the Department of State Development, follows independent research from recruitment and talent solutions firm Robert Walters. The study revealed that 43% of UK residents surveyed would contemplate relocating to South Australia.
Key motivations included the potential for an enhanced lifestyle (50 per cent), the rising cost of living (43 per cent) in the UK, and the state’s strong employment opportunities (41 per cent).
The roadshow aims to showcase what South Australia has to offer as a relocation destination.
Attendees will have the chance to engage directly with employers looking to sponsor skilled professionals, government representatives, and fellow UK migrants. They will gain 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 showcase exhibitor stands, presentations, panel discussions, and Q&A sessions, offering comprehensive insights into living and working in South Australia alongside practical advice on making the move.
Those attending will receive information packs, brochures, and merchandise, whilst having the opportunity to meet fellow UK professionals who have previously made the transition. With a diverse range of job opportunities in healthcare, education, SA Police, construction, engineering and more, South Australia offers a thriving employment landscape, a relaxed lifestyle, and lower everyday living costs.
For additional information or to express interest, visit www.movetosouthaustralia.com.