The outgoing Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade will take over from Hieu Van Le, who has served in the role since 2014.

Ms Adamson will be sworn in as SA's 36th governor, and the third woman to hold the position, in October after she departs DFAT on June 25.

Premier Steven Marshall said the appointment represented a new era for the state.

"She is a very proud South Australian with a plethora of experience in international affairs, vitally important to South Australia as we recover from the once-in-a-century COVID-19 pandemic," Mr Marshall said.

"Her wealth of knowledge on the international stage will put South Australia in good stead as we continue to put South Australia on the global map."

Ms Adamson said she felt a deep sense of honour and privilege when she was first approached to take up the appointment.

"I am greatly looking forward to returning home to serve the people of South Australia and contribute to the state's international engagement through the promotion of trade, investment and people-to-people links," she said.

"One of the things I'm keen to continue to do is to ensure the role of governor is understood.

"And having had the opportunity, growing up in South Australia, to visit Government House as a schoolchild and then as an adult, I think it's a wonderful asset for the state and I'm very keen that as many South Australians as possible have an opportunity to come and visit."

Ms Adamson said she and her husband would be as "open and welcoming and inviting as we can be".

Foreign Minister Marise Payne said Ms Adamson has led the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade ably during a period of considerable strategic challenge.

"Under her leadership, the department has undertaken the largest consular operation in DFAT's history in response to the global COVID-19 pandemic," the minister said.

"Ms Adamson's support to her staff, including those posted overseas, has enabled them to provide continuing assistance to Australians abroad.

"Within the department, Ms Adamson has championed ambitious internal reform. Her intellect and experience are respected across government, business and the broader community."

SA Opposition Leader Peter Malinauskas said Ms Adamson's distinguished career "speaks for itself".

"I expect she will serve in this role, like her many previous roles, with immense distinction," Mr Malinauskas said.

Australian Associated Press