Libs want better Alinta response

The South Australian government has failed to grasp the importance of the looming closure of Alinta Energy's power stations and coal mine in the state's mid-north, Opposition Leader Steven Marshall says.

Mr Marshall and his fellow Liberal MPs have been in Port Augusta over the past three days meeting local community and business groups to look at ways to boost job opportunities.

He says the loss of 400 jobs from Alinta as early as March next year will have a devastating effect on the local community, and has called on Premier Jay Weatherill to lead the government's response.

"It is imperative that the government appreciates the gravity of the situation facing Port Augusta and Leigh Creek residents and makes the development of a response to these devastating job losses its number one priority," Mr Marshall said on Thursday.

"The Labor government also needs to diversify the economy and stimulate businesses through tax relief."