South Australia can compete with big offers from interstate when it comes to recruiting a new child protection boss, Premier Peter Malinauskas says.
SA is looking to replace Cathy Taylor who will finish as the head of the embattled Department of Child Protection at the end of April.
Ms Taylor and her department have been under fire in recent months over the handling of cases of abuse and neglect of young children.
Concerns were raised after the death of a seven-year-old boy in February last year and a six-year-old girl in July.
Police are investigating both cases.
On Monday, the state opposition said it was concerned SA was looking for someone to take on the vital role at the same time as Victoria was offering close to $750,000 for a similar position.
That is almost double what might be offered in SA.
Opposition child protection spokesman Josh Teague said despite the "whopping" salary, Victoria was still looking for a suitable candidate.
"The most vulnerable children are depending on new leadership in child protection," Mr Teague said.
"That's why we need to ensure our offer will secure the most capable person for this crucial responsibility.
"(Victorian Premier) Dan Andrews is already offering up to an extra $364,565 in salary to find Victoria a new child protection boss and after more than six months they still don't have a replacement."
Mr Malinauskas said SA would respond to the relevant market conditions during recruitment.
"It's not all about the money. We've got a few things going for us in South Australia," he said.
"Three-quarters of a million dollars is a lot of money. But we're committed to getting the best person that we can and we'll allow that process to run its course."
The premier said as soon as Ms Taylor announced her decision to go, he had indicated that finding a suitable replacement by the time of her departure would be a difficult and competitive process.
"I put all that on the record on day one and nothing has changed," he said.
Mr Teague said SA could not afford to settle for second best and urged Child Protection Minister Katrine Hildyard to give up her other portfolios.
