The land, formerly part of the Royal Adelaide Hospital site, has become a point of contention as the project faces delays and funding challenges.

The original proposal for a National Aboriginal Art Centre on the site was made in 2018 with $200 million in funding. 

However, following the change in government in 2022, the project was put on hold due to a reported $50 million cost blowout. 

The review of this project concluded in 2023, yet its findings haven’t been shared publicly. Premier Peter Malinauskas has recognized that construction expenses could now soar to $600 million.

According to 9News, the vacant Lot 14 site incurs a hefty annual cost for maintenance, security, and landscaping, with its transformation into the Tarrkarri First Nations Cultural Centre still incomplete.

“We aim to maintain the site to avoid deterioration and reduce future expenses,” said cabinet minister Tom Koutsantonis.

The state government is seeking additional funding from both the Commonwealth and private donors. 

In May, the premier’s office reached out to Andrew “Twiggy” Forrest’s Minderoo Foundation to arrange a meeting between Forrest and Malinauskas.

9News understands that meeting has not yet eventuated, meaning no funding proposal by Minderoo is on the table.

Santos, BHP, Beach Energy and whoever buys the Whyalla Steelworks will be canvassed as potential donors.

But until secure funding is obtained, taxpayers will continue to bear the cost of maintaining the vacant site.