What responsibilities are mainly handled by the South Australian state government?

The South Australian state government is primarily responsible for the administration of essential public services and the management of internal state resources. Its core duties include:

• Public Services: The administration of primary and secondary education, hospitals, public housing, and police services.1
• Health and Welfare: Providing major health services—including hospitals, psychiatric facilities, and drug and alcohol treatment programs—for the Aboriginal community, senior citizens, and people with disabilities. The state also manages the School Dental Service for children up to age 18.2
• Infrastructure and Resources: The management of roads, water supply, and land resources.1
• Justice: The administration of the state’s judicial system, which includes the Supreme Court, District Court, and Magistrates Court, as well as the management of prisons.13

While the federal government holds powers related to defense, foreign affairs, and national economic policy, the state government retains "residual powers" under the Australian constitution, granting it authority over areas not specifically assigned to the Commonwealth, such as internal transport, health, and education.13