Mr Marshall said the government was taking proactive steps to ensure the state's $7.6 billion tourism industry continued to flourish and grow.

Tourism is particularly important to both Kangaroo Island and the Adelaide Hills where the recent fires have had the biggest impact.

The premier said the change would allow David Ridgway to focus on trade and investment, though the state opposition has characterised the shift as Mr Ridgway being sacked.

"Recent and ongoing bushfires have impacted our tourism operators, small businesses and farmers," Mr Marshall said on Saturday.

"We are focused on doing everything we can to support them as they get back on their feet.

"The significant rebuild and recovery effort requires a team effort and a central and coordinated approach, which as premier I will lead.

But opposition treasury spokesman Stephen Mullighan said the dumping of Mr Ridgway came on the back of the government's decision to cut $23 million from the tourism budget with tourism marketing falling to a five-year low.

Tourism is a major job creator in South Australia, currently employing close to 40,000 people.

On Kangaroo Island, tourism operators have been particularly hard hit with losses including the luxury Southern Ocean Lodge and the Vivonne Bay lodge.

The world-renowned Flinders Chase National Park has also completely burned, along with tourism infrastructure including camping grounds, signage and paths.

In the Adelaide Hills, a number of wine producers have suffered losses to vineyards and production facilities.

Australian Associated Press