Concerns about possible cost increases for

projects

July 2026 South Australia’s Treasurer Tom Koutsantonis has raised concerns about possible cost increases for the new Women’s and Children’s Hospital, describing it as a “very troubled” project and admitting he has less confidence in it than the $15.4 billion Torrens to Darlington Road development. The hospital’s estimated cost remains at $3.2 billion, despite the figure not being updated since 2022 and rising construction and inflation pressures. The state budget forecasts public sector net debt increasing from $34.7 billion this year to $53.7 billion by 2029-30, driven largely by spending on the hospital and Torrens to Darlington projects. While acknowledging the hospital’s challenges, the government has not released a revised cost estimate. Mr Koutsantonis warned that hospitals are complex projects and costs could rise, but said contingency funds are built into major developments. Opposition treasury spokesman Ben Hood accused the government of lacking transparency, arguing higher labour and material costs make a blowout likely. The budget also includes a $500 million cost-of-living package, including the abolition of public-school fees and an expanded Seniors Card. Greens leader Robert Simms criticised higher public transport fares, while Mr Koutsantonis said support should be targeted at working families and pensioners.

Greek Tribune Adelaide, South Australia