Beyond borders recruiting success

This graduation marks a significant milestone in the initiative to attract 200 experienced officers from the UK, Republic of Ireland, Canada, New Zealand, and interstate jurisdictions.

Recruits from Course 1 of the SAPOL Transition Program hail from England, Scotland, New Zealand, and Queensland.

Among the graduates is former Cumbria Constabulary officer Jamie Earl, who was drawn to SAPOL for the benefits and quality of life offered in South Australia.

“I was looking for a new adventure and SAPOL offered exactly that. The benefits, such as six weeks of annual leave and shift penalties, were unmatched by anything I had in the UK,” Jamie said.

“The recruitment team’s support was outstanding. They took the time to get to know me, provided consistent communication, and organised events like BBQs and team bonding days before we even started at the Academy. That personal touch made SAPOL stand out.”

Jamie, who has been posted to Elizabeth, brings with him experience in frontline policing, communications, public order management, and achievements such as winning ‘Officer of the Year’ in Cumbria Constabulary.

Fellow graduate Emma Hollywood, previously with Police Scotland for over 14 years, was impressed by the training and the support provided.

“Training at the academy challenged me, particularly the fitness requirements after having twins, but with the support from my Academy trainers and mentors, I improved quickly and completed all my assessments successfully. Firearms training was also a learning curve, but the instructors were fantastic in helping me succeed,” Emma said.

“I’m thrilled to start my career with SAPOL and make a positive impact in the community.”

Emma is looking forward to starting her first shift at Henley Beach and has expressed her future interests include areas such as domestic violence and missing persons.

Commissioner of Police, Grant Stevens highlighted the significance of today’s graduation in enhancing and accelerating frontline policing.

“This is a major milestone for South Australia Police as we welcome these experienced recruits into our ranks. Their vast skills and experiences will not only bolster our frontline policing capabilities but also contribute to our commitment to building a diverse, highly skilled police service,” Commissioner Stevens said.

Graduates will be posted across metropolitan and regional areas, including Whyalla and Port Pirie.

SAPOL is actively recruiting and offers a range of attractive benefits to experienced officers, including six weeks annual leave, competitive salary, and reimbursement of permanent Visa expenses for the officer and their family.

International and Interstate officers looking for a new adventure with a policing service that values experience and provides unmatched support and guidance, should visit https://sapol.info/SAPOLcareers