Trams on SA's federal budget wishlist

South Australia is hoping the federal budget will deliver support for a new medical research precinct, as well a major tram network upgrade.

Treasurer Tom Koutsantonis says there are opportunities for the commonwealth to assist SA in transitioning its economy.

"We're looking for the federal government to partner with us on a number of key infrastructure projects that will help drive the transformation of the South Australian economy," he told AAP.

At the top of the wishlist is funding towards the $280 million John Chalmers Centre for medical research, also known as SAHMRI 2.

SA wants the commonwealth to contribute $176 million towards the proposed facility, which would sit alongside the existing SAHMRI medical research precinct.

It's envisaged SAHMRI 2 would host the southern hemisphere's first proton therapy machine for cancer treatment.

Currently the federal government pays up to $250,000 per patient for a small number of Australians to receive proton therapy overseas.

SA is also hoping for funding towards a major expansion of Adelaide's tram network.

The plan is yet to be costed but there's hope it will get a better airing with the public-transport loving Malcolm Turnbull than it might have under Tony Abbott.

Federal Labor has promised to help fund the expansion if elected, as well as the electrification of the Gawler rail line.

Both projects have been included on Infrastructure Australia's priority list.

"We also want to see the federal government follow through on funding support for the separation of the freight and commuter train lines at Torrens Junction, which was differed in the last budget," Mr Koutsantonis said.

The commonwealth has committed $232 million towards the project, designed to improve traffic and freight capacity, but there is concern the funding could be deferred after previous delays.

Mr Koutsantonis also hopes to attract funding through the federal government's asset recycling scheme.

The program offers incentives to the states to privatise assets, with the proceeds reinvested into new infrastructure.