Police urged to ditch Birmingham for Australia

Police officers are being encouraged to swap the streets of Birmingham for the sun-kissed beaches of places like Adelaide.

Recruiters from South Australia Police are holding UK information sessions for those tempted by the switch and say they have been "overwhelmed" by the levels of interest.

The force has an event in Birmingham on Wednesday, where they will urge experienced officers in the region to consider a new "adventure" down under.

"The workload is nowhere near as what you have over here," said Ch Insp Scott Collins.

"You can get back to some of that proactive policing and engaging with the community. That's what we joined for."

Ch Insp Collins, who used to work with Thames Valley Police and is leading the recruitment drive, described it as an "incredible" lifestyle.

"You can go to work, do the job that you love, finish work [and] go for a walk on the beach," he added.

A campaign featuring the South Australia police commissioner in his swim shorts at a picturesque beach has already gone viral.

Probational constable Oliver Lamb, from Dorset, said he fell in love with Australia after travelling its east coast.

He explained he had "jumped at the opportunity" to join South Australia Police and it had been amazing.

"The people are so friendly," he said. "The weather is fantastic, as we already know, and the way of life is something we all wish for."

According to an advert for the information session, recruits are offered "competitive advantages", including a great salary and a permanent visa.

They need to have three years of policing experience within the last five years, be under 45 and of good health.

The Australian force wants to attract a total of 200 experienced officers from the UK, Ireland, Canada and New Zealand.

Recruiters have already travelled to London and Cardiff and will head to Manchester and Glasgow after Birmingham.

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