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A Scots cop has revealed his decision to quit the police in Britain and move to a new life fighting crime in Australia. Constable Stephen Wallace is now pounding the beat in Adelaide in South Australia having emigrated with his wife and three children last October. He made the decision to up sticks after a family holiday there. Stephen is one of a growing number of cops from across the UK opting for a life down under following a major recruitment drive by the Australian authorities for British officers. He said:"I remember being in the supermarket when we came on holiday, people would come up and notice the Scottish accent, really welcoming and really friendly. I absolutely loved it.” Those who apply to join the Australian police become eligible for Australian citizenship, which otherwise can be difficult to get. In South Australia, 86 officers from the UK and elsewhere have taken up positions with the force in the last 12 months. Up to 200 jobs are open to foreigners and more British recruits are expected in 2026. In 2023 it was revealed that 100 officers from Police Scotland had applied to join the Western Australia Police in Perth with five already having taken up posts there. Stephen, who is originally from a small town in the south west of Scotland, moved from North Yorkshire Police where he was a dog handler at force HQ in Northallerton. Stephen says his three children have all settled well into their new life. He added:“That was a big consideration, moving them (the kids) away from their friends. “But really I think it was probably an easy decision." Though Australia and the UK share the same language, Stephen said there were still some culture shocks to get over. He added:"Probably the biggest is having 40 degree sun, on the beach, on Christmas Day." The 38-year-old says there s not a huge difference in policing between Britain and Australia. He said:"Policing is policing wherever you go. I think policies and procedures change slightly." Stephen has however noticed differences with the way the Aussies interact with their cops. He said;" I think South Australian Police are probably held in a bit higher regard,” “I think they are more willing to assist police officers here in investigations and more willing to give statements. They’re friendly, there have been no issues. “It’s the sunshine maybe. Everyone’s a bit happier.” Stephen doesn’t regret the move to South Australia a year ago. He added:"I still look out my window and see the sea and think, ‘I’m so lucky’. “It’s amazing. “I don’t think I’ll ever get bored of that.” Stephen says he is here for the long term and his family hope to become Australian citizens. He added:“One of the best decisions I’ve made for both me and my family, “Anyone who is looking to join South Australian Police, definitely give it a go." Last week the Daily Record revealed how than 1700 cops have quit Police Scotland in the last two years. The Scottish Police Federation - the organisation that represents rank and file officers - said mounting workloads, stress levels, and low pay were forcing cops out the door.
