South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas has expressed disappointment after Adelaide lost its bid to host the COP31 climate summit, with Australia ceding hosting rights to Türkiye. Despite $8 million allocated in the state budget for preparations, only $4 million has been spent, including $1.3 million by the Department of Premier and Cabinet and $2.5 million by SA Police.
Mr Malinauskas said he understands the federal government's decision and noted that the remaining funds will become unallocated expenditure. The hotel sector also voiced disappointment, with Australian Hotels Association SA chief Anna Moeller calling the loss a setback for businesses that had held back dates for the event.
Opposition spokesperson Ben Hood urged the government to redirect the unspent COP31 funds toward tackling the algal bloom crisis, which has already received over $140 million in state funding. Mr Malinauskas confirmed the remaining budget would be consumed elsewhere but did not commit to specific redirection.
Despite the loss, Mr Malinauskas said Adelaide could host the summit in five years if Australia bids again. He criticized Türkiye's veto, which he said led to the outcome, but noted that Adelaide's preparation leaves a positive legacy for future bids.
