SA premier's father passes away

Tony Marshall, the father of South Australian Premier Steven Marshall, has died aged 78.

The premier's office has confirmed Mr Marshall died on Tuesday.

He was a respected businessman, running a family-owned furniture company from 1975 to 1997, when he handed over the reins to his son and the future SA premier.

In 2001 the business was sold to furniture manufacturer Steinhoff International.

A spokeswoman for the premier said he would be on leave for the next few days to be with his family.

Attorney-General Vickie Chapman will be acting premier during that time.

Opposition Leader Peter Malinauskas said his thoughts were with Mr Marshall and his family "at this difficult time".

"Tony Marshall made a significant contribution to South Australia in his own right and was no doubt proud of his son's achievements," Mr Malinauskas said.