Adelaide cleaner's face slashed in horrific public toilet attack that's left nearby workers shocked

A shopping centre cleaner remains in hospital with serious injuries after her face was slashed with a knife in what police believe was a random attack in Adelaide's north.

The 30-year-old was set upon near the toilets of the Parabanks Shopping Centre around 8pm yesterday.

She sustained significant wounds to her face and back and was rushed to the Royal Adelaide Hospital.

Police have released CCTV of a male filmed casually leaving the toilet area a short time later and are appealing for the public's help to identify him.

Detective Inspector Naomi Oberscheidt says police don't have a motive at this point in time.

"The motive for the attack on the employee is unknown. We have a number of lines of enquiry," she said.

"It is a concerning incident. However, we have significant resources that we have deployed into the area."

"We are looking for this person and we want to locate them as soon as possible."

The incident has left workers at the shopping centre on edge, with many knowing the victim well.

"She's beautiful, she's really friendly, she's nice,” said Tracey Garrard, who works at a nearby fruit and vegetable store.

“She's harmless – she wouldn't hurt anyone. She doesn't deserve for this to happen to her.”

"If it happens to her, it could happen to anyone really. I don't think any of us will be working late by ourselves, that's for sure," she added.

Anyone who recognises the man or has any information that could help police is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at sa.crimestoppers.com.au