Adelaide has suffered a major setback in its international ambitions, losing the bid to host the prestigious 2026 United Nations climate conference, COP31, to Turkiye. The decision comes after months of high-level negotiations and a significant financial investment from the South Australian government.
A Costly Defeat and a Political Firestorm
Federal Climate Minister Chris Bowen confirmed the disappointing news while he was in Brazil. He revealed that Australia had managed to secure only a “significant concession” – the COP presidency for negotiations – while the main event, with its associated global spotlight and economic benefits, will now be held in Turkiye.
“Obviously, it would be great if Australia could have it all. But we can’t have it all,” Mr Bowen stated.
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas expressed his fury, revealing he was only informed of the failed bid on Thursday morning. He did not hold back in his criticism, labelling the international selection process as “obscene.”
The financial cost of the unsuccessful bid is substantial. The state government had already poured almost $4 million into the effort. This included $2.5 million spent by SAPOL and another $1.3 million on wages. A total of $8.3 million had been earmarked in the 2025-26 Budget for the event, funds that must now be reallocated.
Widespread Disappointment and Accusations
Premier Malinauskas claimed the world “largely would have preferred COP to be in Adelaide” but that Turkiye exercised its veto power. Despite the setback, he has not ruled out a future bid for a similar global event.
The failed bid is a double blow for Adelaide, coming just days after the announcement that the world-class opera AIDA, originally scheduled for 2026, has been delayed until 2027.
The opposition was quick to criticise the government's efforts. Shadow Tourism Minister Penny Pratt warned that the loss is a “huge blow for our tourism industry,” which would have benefited from the influx of international delegates.
Environmental groups also voiced their frustration. The Australian Conservation Foundation called the outcome a “missed opportunity” for both Australia and the wider Pacific region, using the moment to urge the Albanese government to accelerate the phase-out of fossil fuels.
Taxpayer Money and Political Fallout
Meanwhile, Shadow Minister Ben Hood launched a strong attack, accusing the Labor government of wasting taxpayer money on a “vanity project.” He pointed to the diversion of 34 police officers to work on the bid as an example of misallocated resources.
“While South Australians grapple with record power prices and rising cost of living, this government continues to chase headlines and photo ops,” Mr Hood said.
The failure to secure COP31 represents a significant diplomatic and economic disappointment for South Australia, raising questions about the strategy and cost of pursuing such large-scale international events.
