SA premier sees benefits in long campaign

South Australia's premier thinks a marathon federal election campaign might actually work in his state's favour.

Jay Weatherill says he expects the nation's leaders to spend plenty of time in SA in coming weeks, allowing him to press the case for funding towards a long list of projects.

"I hope that this long campaign does provide a deep focus on South Australia," he told reporters on Monday.

"I don't think there's been an appreciation of the extent to which South Australia has been damaged by federal government decisions.

"Anything that I can do to raise awareness about these challenges, I'll be doing."

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull's intention to shore up marginal seats in SA was made clear during an extended visit earlier this month.

The task is likely to be complicated by the local popularity of independent senator Nick Xenophon, who is running candidates across the country.

Mr Weatherill has called for whoever wins the election to chip in $176 million towards a new health research centre focused on proton therapy technology.

He's also seeking support for a major extension of Adelaide's tram network, as well as money towards upgrading and expanding recycled water systems to bolster the state's food and wine industries.

But it remains unclear whether the campaign will finally bring confirmation that the navy's future submarines will be built in Adelaide.